Author: Chris Harlan
Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields no-hits North Allegheny in WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship game
May 31, 2023
Mt. Lebanon has a knack for no-hitters in WPIAL championship games.
Venezuelan star leads Shaler to dominant win over Bethel Park in WPIAL Class 5A finals
May 30, 2023
Miguel Hugas sparked a championship celebration in Shaler Township, but the star senior was sure he’d hear from some happy baseball fans in Venezuela too.
McKeesport’s Jahmil Perryman scores twice as Pennsylvania wins Big 33 Football Classic
May 29, 2023
McKeesport’s Jahmil Perryman scored twice, and Team Pennsylvania rallied with a late touchdown to win the Big 33 Football Classic, 31-27, over the Maryland all-stars Sunday in Harrisburg.
Riverview’s Amberson Bauer runs away with 800 title at PIAA championships
May 27, 2023
Amberson Bauer prepares for track meets with some visualization, running each stage of a race through his head with mental reps.
Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo extends family’s winning streak to 5 at PIAA championships
The PIAA had a special guest award Brownsville senior Jolena Quarzo her final state championship gold medal — her older sister Gionna.
Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter breaks PIAA championship record in 3,200 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — At this time last year, Logan St. John Kletter was suffering from a nerve condition in her foot and wondering when she’d run competitively again.
PIAA notebook: Injury knocks highly seeded WPIAL champion out of 100 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — An injury cut short New Castle sprinter Kaevon Gardner’s debut at the state track championships Friday, forcing one of the top athletes in the 100-meter dash to make an early exit.
Freeport senior shakes off rough start, claims PIAA discus medal
May 26, 2023
SHIPPENSBURG — After her first couple of discus throws produced a foul and a 104-footer, Reese Skiba’s state championship was off to a lackluster start.
Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo defends 1,600-meter title at PIAA track championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo decided to skip more races than usual in her senior year, but this wasn’t a case of senioritis.
Coaches wish PIAA team track title could be decided in playoff format like WPIAL
May 25, 2023
It takes a team effort to win a WPIAL team track title, but that’s not necessarily true for winning a state title.
‘Tremendous issue’ with foot hasn’t slowed Upper St. Clair sprinter Dani Prunzik entering states
Nobody who saw Dani Prunzik sprint across the finish line at the WPIAL track championships could’ve guessed the Upper St. Clair senior has battled a painful foot injury for almost a year.
Longtime Hampton athletic director Bill Cardone to retire
May 24, 2023
Longtime Hampton athletic director Bill Cardone won’t be making as many trips to Mars or Moon, but soon he’ll have plenty of free time to travel the world.
Plum reliever shuts door on South Fayette in Class 5A quarterfinals
May 22, 2023
Plum relief pitcher Colin Watson isn’t so worried about how things start but rather how they finish.
Peters Township’s Brendan McCullough makes key interception in East-West all-star win
Peters Township defensive back Brendan McCullough made a late-game interception Sunday that secured a 24-16 victory for his West team in the PSFCA East-West Big School Game in Harrisburg.
From snowboarding to javelin, North Allegheny’s Alaina Fantaski is a determined champion
May 20, 2023
North Allegheny senior Alaina Fantaski was a nationally ranked snowboarder in junior high, who also tried fencing and more traditional activities like basketball.
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera wins 4 gold medals while crisscrossing WPIAL track championships
May 17, 2023
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera was relaxing in the team’s tent when a teammate asked if she was running the 100-meter hurdles.
5 things to watch at WPIAL track and field championships
The WPIAL might be known best for its football hall of famers, but don’t overlook the league’s track and field pedigree.
Known for high-flying dunks, Penn Hills’ Daemar Kelly now leaping over high jump bars
May 16, 2023
Anyone who saw Daemar Kelly finish an alley-oop this winter knows the Penn Hills senior can almost fly. In a gym, on a wood floor, with a basketball in his hands, few around the WPIAL jump higher than him.
NFHS eliminates 1-and-1 foul shots from high school basketball rulebook
May 15, 2023
The pressure of shooting a one-and-one is likely to vanish from high school basketball.
Former OLSH basketball star Jake DiMichele commits to Duquesne
May 12, 2023
Former Our Lady of the Sacred Heart basketball star Jake DiMichele, who graduated a year ago as one of WPIAL’s all-time leading scorers, committed Friday to Duquesne.
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan commits to Michigan
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan committed Friday to Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over finalists Duke, Notre Dame, Stanford and Wisconsin.
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL baseball playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL releases brackets for 2023 baseball playoffs
Who’s No. 1?
WPIAL announces pairings for 2023 softball playoffs
May 11, 2023
Last year’s winners are back for more.
WPIAL adds Pittsburgh Pirates as sponsor for baseball, softball championships
The WPIAL baseball and softball finals will include racing pierogies, T-shirt tosses and a famous green parrot now that the Pittsburgh Pirates have become a presenting sponsor of the high school championship games.
WPIAL awards Mars, Peters Township top seeds in boys lacrosse playoffs
Defending WPIAL and state champion Mars will begin its title defense as a No. 1 seed in the WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs.
Bob Palko among 5 football coaches chosen for PSFCA Hall of Fame
Bob Palko, who won a record nine WPIAL football titles at West Allegheny and Mt. Lebanon, will be inducted this month into the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Pine-Richland, Mars draw top seeds in WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs
Pine-Richland and Mars received the top seeds when the WPIAL announced brackets for the girls lacrosse playoffs Thursday.
North Allegheny girls, boys sweep WPIAL Class 3A track and field team titles
May 9, 2023
North Allegheny track coach John Neff said he had trouble deciding which three girls should run the 3,200 meters Tuesday, mainly because the Tigers had too many good options.
WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending May 7, 2023
Class 6A
Moon’s Jacob Puhalla defends McKinney Mile title in Baldwin Invite’s marquee race
Once Jacob Puhalla wins a track title, the Moon runner likes to win it again.
Many WPIAL athletes at Baldwin Invitational embrace challenge of back-to-back meets
Liz Tapper is one of the state’s top throwers, but the Hempfield senior faced a challenge Friday that was new to her and many others at the Baldwin Invitational.
2023 all-state boys basketball team includes 29 WPIAL players
May 3, 2023
Aquinas Academy’s Vinnie Cugini and Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine earned all-state player of the year honors Wednesday as two of the most prolific scorers in WPIAL boys basketball.
WPIAL team track, boys tennis events postponed Tuesday because of rain
May 2, 2023
Tuesday’s cold, wet weather led the WPIAL to postpone tennis and team track and field events until later in the week.
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan narrows college options to ‘Top 5’
April 30, 2023
Central Catholic already has one junior linebacker committed to a Power 5 school but soon will have another.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 30, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny hosting Western Pa. Football Recruiting Day to connect with college coaches
There are dozens of small-college football coaches who recruit Western Pennsylvania, but sometimes a talented WPIAL player can go overlooked in the process.
North Hills’ Royce Parham commits to Marquette
April 26, 2023
North Hills junior Royce Parham, one of the WPIAL’s top college basketball recruits, committed Wednesday to Marquette.
Former North Allegheny basketball coach Dan DeRose files lawsuit against Fox Chapel School District after ’21 altercation
Dan DeRose wants to coach high school basketball again, but the former WPIAL champion said school districts have shied away because of criminal charges he faced two years ago involving Fox Chapel school police.
South Fayette’s Maddie Webber, Union coach Rob Nogay lead all-state girls basketball team
April 24, 2023
South Fayette senior Maddie Webber, a Villanova recruit who led the Lions to a WPIAL title and a PIAA runner-up finish this winter, was named the state’s Class 5A girls basketball player of the year by all-state voters.
WPIAL Baseball rankings: Week ending April 23, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny sprinter Khiryn Boyd showing off his speed among WPIAL’s best
After not running track for a year, North Allegheny sprinter Khiryn Boyd was curious about the times being run this spring and how his compared with his competitors.
PIAA adds 500 officials, but shortage remains ‘major issue’ for many sports
April 19, 2023
Statewide efforts to recruit and retain high school game officials are seeing some positive results, said a PIAA administrator who oversees the men and women in stripes.
WPIAL announces 20 winners of James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award
The WPIAL saw an increased number of applicants for the James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award this year, and Wednesday announced 20 winners from the 162 nominees.
Trib HSSN WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending April 16, 2023
Class 6A
500-game winner Dana Petruska retires as Mars basketball coach, cites ‘some parent situations’
Mars girls basketball coach Dana Petruska is retiring after 37 years and more than 500 wins, in part because there were too many wannabe coaches in the stands.
Deep North Allegheny girls track and field team takes aim at defending WPIAL title
Recent history says the North Allegheny girls have a good chance to repeat as WPIAL team track champions later this spring. Consider, in the past 30 years, no Class 3A girls champion has won the title only once.
South Park promotes longtime assistant to football coach
April 14, 2023
South Park’s new football coach is already very familiar with the program.
Moon finds replacement for retiring athletic director Ron Ledbetter
Moon has hired a new athletic director to replace Ron Ledbetter, who is retiring this summer after a 33-year career as an educator. The school on Thursday announced the hire of current Beaver athletic director Alan Alcalde.
Butler basketball standout Braylon Littlejohn commits to Miami (Ohio) — for football
April 12, 2023
When Butler’s Braylon Littlejohn committed to Miami (Ohio) on Tuesday, folks weren’t asking him about his choice of schools, but rather his choice of sports.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 9, 2023
Class 6A
Behind family atmosphere, North Allegheny softball team aims to return to WPIAL final
The North Allegheny softball players were individually asked by their coaches to pick one word to describe the program. It wasn’t a serious task, just a light-hearted word-association game.
Belle Vernon star Quinton Martin picks Penn State
April 7, 2023
Penn State landed its first WPIAL running back recruit since Miles Sanders when Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin committed to the Nittany Lions.
2023 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars
April 6, 2023
Scoring 1,000 points in a high school career remains an impressive feat in WPIAL basketball, but remarkably, the league saw its first 3,000-point scorer this winter.
Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas named 2023 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2023 Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2023 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball All-Stars
April 5, 2023
South Fayette won a second consecutive WPIAL girls basketball title this winter, North Allegheny won its third in four years and North Catholic won its sixth since 2017. Those powerhouse teams and more are represented here in the TribLive HSSN girls basketball all-stars for 2023.
Blackhawk basketball coach Steve Lodovico took job ‘for a year,’ resigns 18 seasons later after building WPIAL powerhouse
April 3, 2023
Eighteen years ago, Steve Lodovico applied to be Blackhawk’s boys basketball coach, hoping to replace his legendary mentor John Miller, who was retiring.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 2, 2023
Class 6A
‘Nobody has a perfect system:’ PIAA, critics remain at odds over public-private school debate
The Philadelphia Catholic League opponent Deer Lakes faced in the state basketball finals played tremendous defense, but that shouldn’t surprise anyone, the Lancers’ coach said.
North Allegheny boys volleyball embarks on season of change
The senior-heavy lineup that won a state championship has graduated. The head coach who led the program for two decades has retired. Yes, this is a season of change for the North Allegheny boys volleyball team.
Despite strong start, Deer Lakes comes up short to West Catholic in PIAA Class 3A final
March 25, 2023
HERSHEY — “Let’s go Lancers.”
Aliquippa again finishes as PIAA runner-up after loss to Lancaster Mennonite
March 24, 2023
HERSHEY — Trips to the so-called “Sweetest Place on Earth” have become bittersweet for Aliquippa.
Lincoln Park beats perennial PIAA power Neumann-Goretti in state finals classic
March 23, 2023
HERSHEY — With 11 seconds on the clock, Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas knew it was time to “boogie.”
With tiny enrollment but tons of talent, Imani Christian claims PIAA Class A basketball crown
HERSHEY — One of the smallest high schools in the state won the biggest basketball trophy in Pennsylvania, yet few will call this an underdog story.
Deer Lakes makes more history with berth in 1st PIAA final
March 21, 2023
Neither team had ever reached the state finals, so the Deer Lakes and Penn Cambria boys basketball teams knew history would be made one way or the other Tuesday night.
OLSH basketball coach Don Eckerle ‘good to go’ after collapsing at PIAA semifinal game
On a hectic game day, with all of the preparation that needs to be done, coaches can neglect themselves at times, said longtime basketball coach Don Eckerle.
Imani Christian dominates rematch with Union, earns 1st trip to PIAA basketball finals
March 20, 2023
The words of an opposing coach and heated talk about public vs. private wasn’t what ultimately motivated Imani Christian for Monday night’s playoff win.
Strong 3rd quarter leads Aliquippa past Bishop Canevin in ‘testy’ PIAA quarterfinal
March 18, 2023
The atmosphere around the Aliquippa vs. Bishop Canevin state quarterfinal was tense, to say the least.
After early playoff exit, North Allegheny aims to ‘get that fire back’
The gaggle of professional baseball scouts is gone, but that doesn’t mean there’s a quiet atmosphere nowadays at North Allegheny practices.
‘Other three’ key as Lincoln Park holds off Laurel Highlands in PIAA quarterfinals
March 17, 2023
Lincoln Park’s Dontay Green left the locker room without a shoe on his right foot, the troublesome one that needed screws and plates to fix a lisfranc fracture several months ago.
PIAA announces sites, times for Saturday state basketball quarterfinals
March 16, 2023
Peters Township will host an all-WPIAL doubleheader Saturday in the quarterfinals of the state basketball tournament.
Central Catholic’s PIAA bracket busted by son of Penn State basketball coach
March 15, 2023
EBENSBURG — State College’s Braeden Shrewsberry didn’t accompany his father to the NCAA tournament, but the son of Penn State’s basketball coach created his own moments of March Madness.
Despite defensive shadow, Rodney Gallagher leads Laurel Highlands into PIAA quarterfinals
March 14, 2023
Laurel Highlands coach Rick Hauger’s practices can include some junk defenses, maybe a diamond-and-one or triangle-and-two, but the Mustangs don’t use them in games.
Butler’s Drew Griffith leads 2023 PTFCA all-state honors as indoor track athlete of the year
Butler junior Drew Griffith, one of the state’s top distance runners, was named the boys indoor track athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
Butler rejoining WPIAL football in 2024, ends dispute with PIAA
March 13, 2023
The Butler football team will rejoin the WPIAL in 2024, ending a legal dispute between the school district and PIAA over the team’s desire to stay in District 10.
Deer Lakes boys open state playoffs with dominant win on home floor
March 11, 2023
The stairs that lead from the Deer Lakes locker room to the gym floor are quite steep, but the Lancers were confident they wouldn’t stumble on this day.
‘Bad night’ eliminates North Hills in 1st round of PIAA playoffs
March 10, 2023
North Hills spent the past 10 days putting up shots in its own gym, making Friday’s shooting woes hard to explain.
Union H.S. basketball coach reignites public vs. private debate with postgame comments
March 7, 2023
Union basketball coach Mark Stanley said he wasn’t trying to spark a firestorm with his critical comments at the WPIAL finals but instead shared out loud thoughts other public school coaches keep to themselves.
Behind big night from Dante DePante, Central Catholic stops New Castle to win 2nd WPIAL title
March 4, 2023
Central Catholic hadn’t won a WPIAL title in 15 years, but Dante DePante made himself at home in Petersen Events Center, an arena that’s about a mile from the Vikings’ gym.
In the end, Lincoln Park too much for North Catholic in Class 4A WPIAL title game
March 3, 2023
Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas hear praise from many places, but on this championship night, the best accolades came from the coach of the other team.
Deer Lakes dethrones OLSH to win 1st WPIAL basketball championship
The Deer Lakes boys made basketball history twice this winter, and each time they snapped an Our Lady of the Sacred Heart streak.
Penn Hills second to none in WPIAL finals victory over Peters Township
March 2, 2023
Penn Hills is underrated no more.
Imani Christian surges past Union to win 1st WPIAL title, reigniting public-private debate
Playing against Imani Christian is always a tall task, but as 6-foot-11 sophomore Alier Maluk swung from a Petersen Events Center rim Thursday night, the gigantic challenge became clear.
2023 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. North Catholic
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Deer Lakes vs. OLSH
WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Peters Township vs. Penn Hills
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Imani Christian vs. Union
March 1, 2023
WPIAL Class A boys basketball final
Hot-shooting New Castle tops Mt. Lebanon, returns to WPIAL finals for 6th time in 7 years
February 28, 2023
The first quarter was too low-scoring for Isaiah Boice’s comfort, so the New Castle senior got to work.
Deer Lakes hits 3-pointer in closing seconds, upsets No. 1 seed Steel Valley
February 27, 2023
The Deer Lakes boys are headed to the WPIAL finals for the first time in school history, and they’ll do so with a first-year coach leading the celebration. But before they could scream and shout Monday night, everyone in green and gold held their breath.
Longtime Beaver football coach, WPIAL Hall of Famer Pat Tarquinio dies
Longtime Beaver football coach Pat Tarquinio, who was one of the winningest coaches in WPIAL history, has died. Beaver athletic director Alan Alcalde announced his death Monday.
Penn Hills baffles North Hills with 3-pointers, alley-oops in WPIAL semifinal win
February 25, 2023
Penn Hills teammates Daemar Kelly and Julian Dugger have perfected their high-flying alley-oop this winter, mastering a play that shows their rare athleticism.
Behind veteran standouts, talented freshmen, North Allegheny girls eye another WPIAL swimming title
North Allegheny’s Corky Semler has coached high school swimming for almost 40 years, so when he says this year’s freshman class is among his best, that’s worth noting.
Football coach Mike Collodi leaves Elizabeth Forward for Mt. Lebanon
February 24, 2023
A football player’s body language and how he carries himself are important to Mike Collodi, who was thrilled with the reception he received Thursday as Mt. Lebanon’s new coach.
Mt. Lebanon holds off Butler, reaches WPIAL semifinals for 5th time in 6 years
Three times in the fourth quarter, Mt. Lebanon’s Riley Farabaugh was sent to the foul line for a crucial one-and-one.
No. 1 Lincoln Park survives WPIAL quarterfinal test from South Allegheny
February 23, 2023
Lincoln Park was held 25 points below its season average and didn’t make a 3-pointer all game, yet the WPIAL favorite in Class 4A is still alive.
PIAA cracks down on ‘redshirt’ years taken by junior high athletes
February 22, 2023
The PIAA is cracking down on junior high athletes who take unofficial redshirt years.
WPIAL reveals new consolation brackets for basketball, includes 3rd-place games
February 21, 2023
The last time WPIAL basketball had a consolation bracket, the league used a combination of play-in games and follow-the-winner tiebreakers to qualify teams for the 2016 state tournament.
Amid coaching controversy, Steel Valley opens playoffs with win over McGuffey
Whenever Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine glanced into the stands Monday night, he wasn’t looking for friends or family. That’s where his suspended head coach was sitting, five rows behind the team’s bench.
South Park football coach Marty Rieck resigns after 8 seasons
February 20, 2023
South Park football coach Marty Rieck, who won state titles with the Eagles as both a player and assistant coach, has resigned after eight seasons leading the program.
Nationally ranked wrestlers among winners at Western Pa. Girls Championship
Three nationally ranked wrestlers were among the 13 champions crowned Sunday at the Western Pa. Girls Championship, an event that more than doubled in size since last winter.
22 WPIAL football players picked for Big School East-West all-star game
February 18, 2023
Pine-Richland teammates Ryan Palmieri, Jake Beam, John Rottinghaus and Matt Nicely, who won a state title together in December, were among 22 WPIAL football players chosen for the Big School East-West all-star game.
North Allegheny girls regroup during long layoff before WPIAL Class 6A playoffs commence
WPIAL schedule-makers gave the North Allegheny girls almost two weeks off before the basketball playoffs, but the Tigers didn’t take a vacation.
Small School East-West all-star game roster includes 16 from WPIAL, City League
Pitt recruit Braylan Lovelace of Leechburg and future Miami (Ohio) lineman Greg Smith of Steel Valley were among 16 WPIAL and City League players selected for the Small School East-West all-star game this year.
Experienced backcourt leads No. 4 Gateway past Woodland Hills in WPIAL playoff opener
A backcourt led by experienced guards is a time-tested formula that works in March Madness, but it also wins games here in the WPIAL playoffs.
13 WPIAL, City League players chosen for 2023 Big 33 Football Classic
February 17, 2023
Thirteen players from the WPIAL and City League were selected to compete in this year’s Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL brings back play-in games to determine state basketball playoff qualifiers
February 14, 2023
No more sitting and waiting.
Choosing Hampton’s seed becomes tricky decision with leading scorer ineligible
The chairman of the WPIAL basketball committee largely avoided one of Monday’s most-interesting debates, since it was a topic close to his heart.
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 13, 2023
A closer look at the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs, which begin Thursday night:
WPIAL reveals basketball playoff brackets asking: ‘What have you done lately?’
If the season ended three days ago, the Penn Hills boys probably would’ve earned a No. 1 seed in the WPIAL basketball playoffs.
2023 WPIAL bracketology: HSSN forecasts the boys basketball playoff pairings
February 12, 2023
The Path to the Pete will be revealed Monday when the WPIAL basketball playoff pairings are announced at 3 p.m. on TribLive HSSN.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 12, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny set to host 2nd annual Western Pa. girls wrestling championship
About 35 athletes visited North Allegheny last winter for the first Western Pa. girls wrestling championship, a number that should more than double this time around.
Rodney Gallagher scores 29, Laurel Highlands tops rival Uniontown in 2OTs
February 10, 2023
The scouting report on Rodney Gallagher says that if he gets enough late-game chances, he’ll usually make opponents pay.
Central Catholic’s Debaba Tshiebwe follows brotherly advice, posts double-double to defeat Butler
February 8, 2023
Advice from an older brother can be valuable, especially when your brother is the top college basketball player in the country.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending February 5, 2023
February 4, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending February 5, 2023
Class 6A
Isaiah Boice’s quick recovery helps No. 1 New Castle defeat No. 2 Central Catholic
Isaiah Boice planned to celebrate New Castle’s section title by drinking lots of chocolate milk, the bone-healing beverage he credits for his quick recovery.
State rep proposes legislation that would allow PIAA to crown separate public, private champs
February 3, 2023
The PIAA has maintained that splitting public and private schools into separate playoffs is prohibited under a state statute from 1972, but new legislation could rewrite that law.
Baldwin hires McKeesport assistant Dana Brown Jr. as football coach
February 1, 2023
Dana Brown Jr. turns 32 on Sunday, but he got an early birthday present Wednesday night.
Ohio-bound D.J. Walker, 5 other Aliquippa seniors make college commitments official
A group of Aliquippa football seniors including standout safety/wide receiver Donovan Walker announced their college commitments Wednesday, with Walker choosing Ohio.
Aquinas Academy’s Vinnie Cugini breaks WPIAL basketball all-time scoring record
January 31, 2023
There’s a new all-time leading scorer in WPIAL basketball history, but the newly crowned record holder had a somewhat subdued celebration.
Woodland Hills’ Miles Sanders extends Super Bowl streak for Big 33 Football Classic
January 29, 2023
The Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak lives on, thanks to a former WPIAL star.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 29, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny wrestling crowns 2 county champs
North Allegheny’s wrestling team celebrated two individual champions at the Allegheny County Tournament at Fox Chapel, where senior Jayson Flener and junior Aidan Buggey each won their weight class Jan. 20-21.
No. 1 Lincoln Park uses ‘organized mayhem’ to defeat North Catholic, strengthen section lead
“Organized mayhem” is the way Lincoln Park’s boys basketball team describes its offense.
6 WPIAL coaches earn NFHS Section 2 honors for 2021-22 sports seasons
January 27, 2023
Six WPIAL coaches have earned regional honors from the National Federation of State High School Associations for their work in the 2021-22 school year.
City League QB among 5 finalists for Willie Thrower Award for 1st time
January 24, 2023
Westinghouse quarterback Keyshawn Morsillo, who led the Bulldogs on a historic run to the state football finals, was announced Tuesday as one of five finalists for the Willie Thrower Award.
Central Catholic hires former Seneca Valley, Pine-Richland assistant Ryan Lehmeier as football coach
Central Catholic’s new football coach wasn’t chosen from the school’s alumni list, but that doesn’t mean Ryan Lehmeier isn’t already familiar with the team’s tradition.
Bethel Park hires offensive coordinator Phil Peckich as football coach
Bethel Park promoted offensive coordinator Phil Peckich to head coach Tuesday night, giving the Black Hawks football program some continuity under a coach who’s among the youngest in the WPIAL.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 22, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL Hall of Fame inductee Don Rebel reflects on 35 years calling games
A tree in the middle of a grassy field in Sheraden served as the first press box for a 7- or 8-year-old Don Rebel, who climbed the branches and offered play-by-play for his older brother’s Wiffle ball games.
North Allegheny wrestling great Ray Brinzer to join WPIAL Hall of Fame
Ray Brinzer writes software and manages databases as a computer programmer, which seems a world away from a wrestling mat for one of the WPIAL’s all-time greats, but the former North Allegheny star can see similarities.
With Pitt coach watching, Aliquippa football stars hit basketball stride to defeat Shenango
January 19, 2023
Pitt football coach Pat Narduzzi was sitting among the home fans in Aliquippa’s gym Wednesday night, there with dozens of others to watch a group of football players throw around a basketball.
Valley great Tom Pipkins highlights 2023 WPIAL Hall of Fame class
January 18, 2023
Tom Pipkins jokes that he might already be retired from working if high school athletes could’ve signed endorsement deals back in his day.
Peters Township creates 3-way section tie with narrow win over Bethel Park
Peters Township broke a tie on the scoreboard to create a tie in the standings.
Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca commits to Penn State
January 17, 2023
Central Catholic linebacker Anthony Speca, one of the state’s top college football recruits, committed Tuesday to Penn State.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 15, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny inline hockey team thrives outside spotlight
North Allegheny has a high school sports team that’s undefeated this winter, a motivated roster that’s trying to avenge a second-place finish from last year.
Mars aces midterm test with 37-point win over No. 1 Chartiers Valley
After a week of big tests in the classroom, the Mars boys basketball team passed another on the court Friday night.
North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman repeats as Gatorade Pa. Volleyball Player of the Year
January 13, 2023
North Allegheny senior Mia Tuman was recognized as the state’s top girls volleyball player for the second year in a row Friday when she was named Gatorade Pennsylvania Volleyball Player of the Year.
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne among 32 nominees for NFL’s Don Shula Award
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne, who led the Rams to a state title this season, was one of 32 coaches nationwide nominated for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.
Mt. Lebanon matches rival Upper St. Clair shot for shot in double-overtime win
January 10, 2023
Two dozen 3-pointers made the score higher than a typical Mt. Lebanon-Upper St. Clair grind, but the dramatic finish still fit this gritty rivalry’s history.
Penn Township’s Brian Sakowski ready to officiate national championship game
January 7, 2023
Sixteen years ago, as Brian Sakowski remembers, he worked his first varsity football game, a WPIAL rivalry between Trinity and Canon-McMillan.
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings for week of Jan. 8, 2023
Class 6A
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for week of Jan. 8, 2023
Class 6A
Jonathan Anderson leads No. 1 New Castle past No. 2 Butler in renewed rivalry
New Castle’s Jonathan Anderson already knew all about his school’s old rivalry with Butler, even though the senior hadn’t faced the Tornado in his playing days.
WPIAL clears 6-9 basketball player Ama Sow after transfer to Montour
January 6, 2023
Montour sophomore Ama Sow kept asking boys basketball coach Bill Minear the same question.
Bob Palko, 9-time WPIAL champion, resigns as Mt. Lebanon football coach
Thirteen months after celebrating a state championship with the Blue Devils, Bob Palko has resigned as Mt. Lebanon’s football coach to focus attention on concerns away from the field.
Rosters announced for 2023 PIHL all-star games
Hempfield’s Nick Bruno and Bishop Canevin’s Ryan Saginaw, two of the PIHL’s top scorers, are among 210 players selected for the league’s all-star games.
PIHL mourns death of commissioner John Mucha
January 5, 2023
PIHL commissioner John Mucha, the top administrator for high school hockey in Western Pennsylvania, has died.
Hampton’s Peter Kramer scores 37 in key section win over Highlands
January 3, 2023
Hampton’s Peter Kramer shushed the Highlands crowd after one of his seven 3-pointers, a celebration he downplayed later, but nobody was able to quiet the Talbots’ newest star on this night.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for week of Jan. 1, 2023
Class 6A
Lincoln Park tops Laurel Highlands in potential star-powered WPIAL championship preview
December 29, 2022
With a hyped crowd watching inside CCBC’s dome, Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas made a pair of free throws with 21 seconds left Thursday, the final points in a 70-66 victory over top-ranked Laurel Highlands.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 25, 2022
Class 6A
See the 2022 WPIAL and City League all-conference football teams
December 24, 2022
The four months of high school football season might zip by in a blur, but each fall the coaches take a moment to reflect, look back and vote for all-conference teams.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Fort Cherry freshman leads Black Hills awards
Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg is only a freshman but conference coaches chose the dual-threat quarterback as the offensive MVP in the Black Hills this season.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Beaver Falls, Mohawk top Midwestern selections
Conference champion Beaver Falls earned six first-team spots on the all-Midwestern team led by senior Trey Singleton, who earned honors on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Greensburg Central Catholic tops Eastern awards
Conference champion Greensburg Central Catholic earned eight first-team spots on the all-conference team, including two by lineman Ryan Kimmel, who was recognized on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Mapletown leads Tri-County South after historic season
Mapletown celebrated its first undefeated regular season since 1968, a feat that was recognized in all-conference awards.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Union’s Braylon Thomas leads Big 7 award winners
Union quarterback Braylon Thomas and South Side linebacker Ryan Navarra earned the top individual awards in the Class A Big 7 all-conference voting.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Sto-Rox tops Century with 9 players on 1st team
December 23, 2022
Sto-Rox was a newcomer in the Class 2A Century Conference, but the Vikings made themselves right at home this season.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Steel Valley leads 1st team with 9 spots in Allegheny
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins was a two-way standout for the Ironmen, but he wasn’t the only player on the roster making an impact on both sides of the ball.
2022 All-City League Football Team: Westinghouse’s Keyshawn Morsillo, coach Donta Green take top honors
December 22, 2022
Westinghouse won the City League title for the 38th time in team history, but the Bulldogs didn’t stop there.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Avonworth sweeps MVP honors in Western Hills
Avonworth’s Luke Hilyard and Brandon Biagiarelli swept the conference MVP honors, and nine teammates also were named first-team all-conference after the Antelopes won the Class 3A Western Hills title.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Belle Vernon gets 12 spots on Interstate 1st team
Belle Vernon has had many reasons to celebrate.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Freeport, Shady Side Academy lead Allegheny 6 honors
Conference champion Freeport received 10 first-team all-conference spots in the Class 3A Allegheny 6, led by Ben Lane, Jacksen Reiser and Jacob Bollinger, who also earned individual awards.
Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2024
December 21, 2022
College football coaches needing a linebacker, running back, wide receiver or offensive lineman will be visiting Western Pennsylvania in the coming months.
2022 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars
Western Pennsylvania had five high school football teams reach the state finals this season, including a postseason run by Westinghouse that was the City League’s first PIAA championship game appearance in decades.
Trib HSSN 2022 Head of the Class: Football player of the year in all 6 classes
December 19, 2022
As the saying goes, big-time players make big-time plays in big-time games. Many of the best players in Western Pennsylvania proved those words true this fall.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for week of Dec. 18, 2022
Class 6A
PIAA sparks controversy with changes to diving championships
The PIAA fears high school diving is disappearing from many areas of the state, but changes meant to save the sport will force the WPIAL to revamp its championship format this winter.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: 10 Armstrong players, coach Frank Fabian earn Greater Allegheny honors
December 16, 2022
WPIAL passing leader Cadin Olsen earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 4A Greater Allegheny, along with his top two receiving targets.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Aliquippa, coach Mike Warfield lead Parkway honors
Aliquippa players received a dozen first-team spots on the Class 4A Parkway all-conference team, including six claimed by a trio of linemen honored on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: 2-way standouts lead Big Seven postseason honors
McKeesport teammates Bobbie Boyd and Jahmil Perryman were two-way stars for the Tigers this season, but they weren’t the only players in the Class 4A Big Seven pulling double duty.
Former North Allegheny star Ayden Owens runner-up for top college track award
December 15, 2022
North Allegheny graduate and Arkansas decathlete Ayden Owens-Delerme was the runner-up for college track and field’s top honor Thursday night.
Woodland Hills seeks to replace football coach Tim Bostard
After 22 years of coaching Woodland Hills football, first as an assistant and later head coach, Tim Bostard says he often joked that he’d be there until they kicked him out.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: North Allegheny coach Art Walker joins 9 players on 6A team
December 14, 2022
The WPIAL classification for the biggest schools was the league’s smallest overall with only five teams.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Penn-Trafford has 7 spots on Big East 1st team
Penn-Trafford’s size up front was a strength this season and opposing coaches recognized that group favorably when voting for the all-conference team.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Penn Hills, Pine-Richland lead Class 5A Northeast honors
The playoff race in the Northeast was among the most competitive in the WPIAL, depth that showed in the all-conference team.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Upper St. Clair places 10 on Allegheny Six team
Upper St. Clair’s Aidan Besselman and Mark Banbury earned first-team honors on both sides of the ball, helping the Panthers claim 10 spots on the Allegheny Six all-conference team.
Former Gateway star Derrick Davis announces plans to transfer from LSU
December 12, 2022
Former Gateway standout Derrick Davis, the TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year in 2019, has announced plans to transfer from LSU.
Belle Vernon sees no ‘racial intent’ by football players in controversial social media video
The Belle Vernon football players involved in a controversial social media video weren’t trying to racially taunt anyone, said the school’s top administrator, but they will face consequences for including a racial slur.
PIAA wants investigation into signs, video targeting Westinghouse football team
December 10, 2022
The PIAA has directed the Southern Columbia administration to investigate allegations of racist taunts involving signs and a social media video targeting Westinghouse’s football team.
After 7-year hiatus, Jamie Kyriazis returns to coach North Allegheny wrestling team
Timing is important in wrestling.
Pine-Richland stuns Imhotep Charter in PIAA Class 5A final on Ryan Palmieri’s big night
December 9, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — Pine-Richland quarterbacks sure have a knack for big performances in the biggest games, a history that includes Ben DiNucci, Phil Jurkovec and Cole Spencer.
Westinghouse’s hopes of state championship dashed by Southern Columbia in Class 2A final
MECHANICSBURG — Westinghouse fairy-tale ending was spoiled by a team that’s very familiar with being cast as the villain in the state football championships.
Westinghouse welcomes underdog role in PIAA finals against 12-time champion Southern Columbia
Westinghouse coach Donta Green gathers his football players after each practice and every game for a session he calls highs and shout-outs.
Bishop McDevitt punishes Aliquippa for mistakes in PIAA Class 4A title game
December 8, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — In the state football championships, against a quarterback with major-college talent and an opponent seeking redemption, there’s very little room for error.
Union playoff run ends with loss to Steelton-Highspire in PIAA Class A football final
MECHANICSBURG – Union could see the end zone all afternoon, but didn’t get there enough.
Defending state champion Aliquippa draws PIAA finals rematch with Bishop McDevitt
Aliquippa started a sophomore at quarterback and a freshman at running back in the state finals last season while opponent Bishop McDevitt had a freshman behind center that day.
Trib HSSN high school football state rankings for Dec. 7, 2022
The PIAA football playoffs are down to 12 teams as the season approaches the final weekend.
Plans to expand, strengthen PIAA competitive-balance rule rejected by board
December 7, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — Plans to revamp the competitive-balance formula were rejected Wednesday by the PIAA board, meaning only football and basketball teams are still impacted by the rule — and only those that add too many transfers.
After PIAA approves NIL policy, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher quickly adds 1st deal
MECHANICSBURG — The vote was only a couple of hours old when Laurel Highlands senior Rodney Gallagher announced the first NIL deal for a PIAA athlete.
PIAA concerned with rising ejection rates among boys soccer players, coaches
December 5, 2022
The PIAA was optimistic that the rising number of player and coach ejections would subside statewide after adding a two-game suspension in 2020 for the most egregious unsportsmanlike acts.
Westinghouse ends City League’s 25-year wait, tops Steel Valley to reach state finals
December 2, 2022
No City League football team has reached the state finals in 25 years, but Westinghouse is headed there next week.
In storied Aliquippa football history, could these Quips show they’re best with another PIAA title?
December 1, 2022
There’s always room to debate which Aliquippa football team was the best in school history.
Central Catholic football coach Terry Totten resigns after 18 seasons, 6 WPIAL titles
When Central Catholic football coach Terry Totten officially met with his players one final time Thursday, he showed them the watch on his wrist and told them how it just keeps ticking.
Pine-Richland draws PIAA semifinal opponent that rarely passes
The football itself is usually an essential piece of practice equipment, but when Pine-Richland’s scout-team offense took the field this week, coach Jon LeDonne had the group run plays without one.
Trib HSSN High School Football State Rankings for Nov. 29, 2022
November 29, 2022
The favorites remain alive in the state playoffs.
Imani Christian transfers eligible for basketball season after PIAA overturns WPIAL decisions
November 28, 2022
Imani Christian transfers Robert Sledge and Kylan Holmes are now eligible to play basketball this winter after the PIAA overturned earlier decisions by the WPIAL.
PIAA announces semifinal sites, times for state football playoffs
November 27, 2022
The Pine-Richland football team has a two-hour bus ride this weekend and Aliquippa has a three-hour trip ahead. That often comes with reaching the state semifinals.
Westinghouse shuts down Farrell, sets up PIAA semifinal showdown with WPIAL champion
November 26, 2022
Westinghouse fans have a variety of chants and cheers, but “go defense go” seemed to have a little extra enthusiasm Saturday afternoon at Cupples Stadium.
Aliquippa rolls past Central Valley to capture 19th WPIAL football title
November 25, 2022
Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes landed in the end zone after leaping headfirst over his linemen, but the running back was quickly airborne again when guard Neco Eberhardt celebrated by lifting the sophomore off his feet.
2022 WPIAL 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Central Valley
WPIAL Class 4A football championship
2022 WPIAL 3A football championship breakdown: Belle Vernon vs. Avonworth
November 24, 2022
WPIAL Class 3A football championship
2022 WPIAL 2A football championship breakdown: Steel Valley vs. Beaver Falls
WPIAL Class 2A football championship
2022 WPIAL A football championship breakdown: Bishop Canevin vs. Union
WPIAL Class A football championship
Thanksgiving Day practice now annual tradition for WPIAL 4A finalists Central Valley, Aliquippa
How many folks are coming to Thanksgiving dinner? Central Valley’s Bret FitzSimmons expected to eat turkey with around 70 friends.
Trib HSSN High School Football State Rankings for Nov. 22, 2022
November 22, 2022
There’s a new No. 1 team in Class 2A.
PIAA announces quarterfinal sites, times for state football playoffs
November 20, 2022
WPIAL Class 5A champion Pine-Richland will host a state quarterfinal in the PIAA football playoffs this week while 6A winner North Allegheny starts on the road.
North Allegheny shuts out rival Central Catholic in 2nd half to claim 5th WPIAL football title
November 19, 2022
These teams combined for one touchdown when they met eight weeks ago in a low-scoring, field-position battle between WPIAL rivals who leaned mostly on their defenses.
North Allegheny basketball teams adjust to early start to season
Starting basketball season a week earlier than usual probably doesn’t excite WPIAL coaches, but the idea of a less-compact regular season maybe does.
‘We are here:’ Aliquippa gets defensive in WPIAL semifinal victory over McKeesport
November 18, 2022
There was no tropical storm or heavy rain.
2022 WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
2022 WPIAL 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair
WPIAL Class 5A football championship
Program-boosting coaches lead North Allegheny, Central Catholic into WPIAL Class 6A title game
Whether he deserves some credit or blame depends on your perspective, but Art Walker certainly helped set Central Catholic on a path to become a WPIAL powerhouse.
5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football
November 17, 2022
Aliquippa is trying to reach the WPIAL football finals for the 15th year in a row, meaning some of the players on the Quips roster weren’t born the last time the team failed to get there.
Aliquippa, McKeesport collide again in WPIAL semifinals after 2OT battle last season
For a year, McKeesport has wondered what might’ve been.
5 things we learned in Week 11: Bill Cherpak joins ‘role model’ George Novak in WPIAL’s 300 club
November 13, 2022
Bill Cherpak could’ve succeeded in whatever career path he pursued, says his former high school football coach, recalling how the Steel Valley graduate already was a bright leader in those days.
WPIAL announces playoff sites for semifinal football games
November 12, 2022
The stadiums of Canon-McMillan and North Allegheny were chosen by the WPIAL to host two of the eight football semifinal matchups scheduled for Friday.
‘Down and out’ Central Catholic tops Mt. Lebanon to make 4th straight finals trip
November 11, 2022
Central Catholic wideout Peter Gonzalez missed the first three weeks of the season after knee surgery, but quarterback Payton Wehner kept throwing him passes anyway, while he worked his way back to the field.
Central Catholic is passing more than ever, yet rainstorm awaits in WPIAL semifinals
There was a new piece of equipment on the field at Central Catholic football practice this week: a five-gallon water jug.
5 things to watch in Week 11: Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak could be 4th WPIAL coach to 300 wins
Twenty-seven years ago, Thomas Jefferson started the 1995 football season with a 15-0 win over Belle Vernon behind a first-year head coach named Bill Cherpak.
WPIAL keeps football games on Friday despite rain; Westinghouse now Thursday
November 9, 2022
Don’t forget to bring an umbrella or two.
WPIAL issues split decisions on 3 Imani Christian basketball transfers
November 8, 2022
The WPIAL cleared Imani Christian transfer Damon Givner to play his sophomore basketball season with the Saints, but two others were ruled ineligible after separate hearings Tuesday in Green Tree.
WPIAL approves 2 Serra Catholic transfers after eligibility hearing
November 7, 2022
The WPIAL ruled Serra Catholic transfers Matt McNeal and David Jordan fully eligible after the sophomores attended an eligibility hearing Monday in Green Tree.
WPIAL announces sites for Friday’s round of football playoffs
November 5, 2022
The WPIAL chose Canon-McMillan and Gateway to host Class 5A semifinals Friday night.
5 things we learned in 1st round of WPIAL football playoffs
The drive home from Burgettstown to Lawrence County takes about an hour, but the Union football team had a slight detour Friday night.
New cast of characters earns more championship gold for North Allegheny cross country
North Allegheny swept the big-school WPIAL cross country team titles this fall for the fifth year in a row, adding two more banners to a long list of league championships.
Upper St. Clair stuns Gateway in WPIAL playoffs behind ‘resilient’ QB who’d lost starting job
Upper St. Clair quarterback Julian Dahlem lost his starting job last month and hadn’t attempted a pass in weeks, yet the sophomore threw a season-saving touchdown Friday night.
5 things to watch in Week 10 of high school football
November 4, 2022
In WPIAL Class 5A, is eight enough?
Upper St. Clair running back with Florida roots hopes to lead Panthers on WPIAL playoff run
An injured ankle had Jamaal Brown sidelined at this time last year, making him an unhappy spectator when Upper St. Clair lost in the first round of the playoffs.
Butler can participate in District 10 football championship after court denies PIAA request
November 3, 2022
The Butler football team will have a chance to win a District 10 championship thanks to a school district victory Thursday in court.
WPIAL rules Lincoln Park transfers eligible, requests hearings for Imani newcomers
November 2, 2022
The WPIAL cleared Lincoln Park transfers Maddie Syka and Abbi Jannuzi to play girls basketball in the regular season this winter after holding separate eligibility hearings Tuesday in Green Tree.
WPIAL purchases building with plans to relocate league office
November 1, 2022
You might say the WPIAL is transferring offices.
Week 9 surprises loomed large as WPIAL football committee paired brackets
October 30, 2022
Some folks count sheep.
‘It’s unfair to our kids,’ says Clairton coach after WPIAL denies home playoff game
October 29, 2022
Wayne Wade was already envisioning one more Friday night in Clairton under the lights and the festivities that accompany a home football game in the WPIAL playoffs.
Breaking down the 2022 WPIAL football playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL announces 2022 football playoff pairings
Defending WPIAL champions Aliquippa and Bishop Canevin were among the six teams that earned No. 1 seeds for the upcoming football playoffs when brackets were revealed online Saturday on TribLive HSSN.
Girls wrestling moves closer to goal of being sanctioned by PIAA
Someday, the state’s best female wrestlers will be crowned PIAA champions at Giant Center in matches held alongside the boys, if advocates for the sport get their wish.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2022 football playoff pairings
The WPIAL football playoff brackets will be revealed at 2 p.m. Saturday on TribLive HSSN. In the meantime, here’s a look at what those brackets might look like, according to HSSN’s Don Rebel and Chris Harlan.
Capacity crowd sees Aliquippa defeat rival Central Valley with dominant 3rd quarter
Aliquippa’s DJ Walker saw fans standing rows deep along the fence, heard cheers of a capacity crowd and felt the excitement in the cold, October air.
Judge rules Butler football can compete in District 10 playoffs
October 28, 2022
Butler earned its biggest win of the season hours before Friday night’s football game against Latrobe.
5 things to watch in Week 9 of high school football
Almost everyone has an off year once in a while, yet Mars coach Eric Kasperowicz and North Catholic’s Pat O’Shea have never had a team miss the playoffs in their head coaching careers.
Reigning state champions Aliquippa, Central Valley clash in long-awaited Week 9 finale
October 27, 2022
Two high school communities in Beaver County had Oct. 28 marked on their calendars since late February, when the WPIAL first released this season’s football schedules.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2022 football playoff pairings
October 26, 2022
Bracketology before the playoff field is set is a curious idea.
Once a critic of PIAA competitive-balance rule, state rep from Beaver County supports overhaul
The PIAA’s plan to remove the transfer criteria from its competitive-balance formula received support Tuesday from a Beaver County legislator who was an outspoken critic of the current rule.
Football fans lining up for coveted Central Valley vs. Aliquippa tickets
October 25, 2022
The hottest ticket in Beaver County isn’t for a British pop star or an 80’s rock band back on tour.
5 things we learned in Week 8 of high school football
October 23, 2022
There were some dark days this fall for the Mohawk football program, but Saturday wasn’t one of them.
OLSH loses star QB in warmups; No. 1 Bishop Canevin clinches 1st conference title since ’11
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s Nehemiah Azeem is one of the WPIAL’s top passers, but 15 minutes before kickoff, the Chargers found out they wouldn’t have him in the lineup.
Trib HSSN WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Oct. 23, 2022
October 22, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny volleyball looks to finish job after unprecedented regular season dominance
North Allegheny’s girls volleyball team has won five consecutive state titles, but this year’s roster accomplished a feat none of those teams ever did. They played 16 matches this fall and didn’t lose single set — winning them all 3-0.
Central Catholic’s young playmakers lead playoff-clinching win over Seneca Valley
Central Catholic could’ve accepted a penalty for an out-of-bound kickoff and taken the ball at the 35-yard line, but instead told Seneca Valley to re-kick.
5 things to watch in Week 8 of high school football
October 21, 2022
It’s hard to be perfect.
Preseason WPIAL favorites Central Catholic, Seneca Valley now fighting for playoff lives
October 20, 2022
Seneca Valley and Central Catholic were picked as preseason favorites to meet in the WPIAL Class 6A championship before anyone had played a game.
9 WPIAL coaches earn statewide award from PIAA
October 18, 2022
Nine WPIAL coaches were name state coaches of the year by the PIAA for the 2021-22 school year.
WPIAL board increases to 21 seats with diversity advisory council addition
The WPIAL board has expanded to 21 members with the addition of a seat for a representative from the WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council.
PIAA’s reps from WPIAL split on future of competitive-balance rule
October 17, 2022
The WPIAL has three seats on the PIAA board, and its representatives usually vote together, but that didn’t happen when asked about making major changes to the state’s competitive-balance rule.
5 things we learned in Week 7: Central Catholic blocked FG touchdown scorer: ‘I heard no whistle’
October 15, 2022
As a 6-foot-4, 270-pound offensive lineman, Anthony Shovlin says he’d accepted the fact that scoring touchdowns wasn’t in his future, but that changed dramatically Friday night.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 16, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny athletic director concerned by changing definition of amateurism
A groundbreaking name, image and likeness policy proposed by the PIAA cleared a second hurdle this month, meaning Pennsylvania high school athletes soon could be eligible to make money from NIL deals this winter.
Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen capitalizes on Mars’ mistakes in high-scoring Greater Allegheny win
Giving Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen short fields, time to pass and extra possessions is a dangerous combination.
5 things to watch in Week 7 of high school football
October 14, 2022
Football coaches will always say Week 7 isn’t the time for nonconference games, since the playoffs are less than a month away and nobody wants to get hurt now in a “meaningless” game.
PIAA rule keeps OLSH football team idle Friday night after Avella forfeits
October 13, 2022
Avella doesn’t have enough healthy players available for this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, so the Eagles will forfeit the Class A Black Hills Conference contest scheduled for Friday night.
Philadelphia Catholic League teams no longer block WPIAL’s path to PIAA basketball finals
The marquee matchup of state championship weekend became an all-Philadelphia Catholic League affair when Roman Catholic and Archbishop Wood met in Hershey last winter for the Class 6A boys basketball final.
Narrow vote keeps alive potential overhaul of PIAA competitive-balance rule
October 12, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — The PIAA competitive-balance rule was originally created to measure postseason success and transfers, but that formula could change significantly this winter.
NIL policy for Pa. high school athletes clears 2nd hurdle, could be finalized in December
October 11, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — One of Western Pennsylvania’s largest hospital networks had to revamp an advertising campaign that featured WPIAL athletes after the PIAA pointed out the ads violated its rules.
5 things we learned in Week 6: Some teams clinching already
October 8, 2022
It’s too early to start mapping playoff scenarios for most WPIAL football teams, but a select few already have won their way in.
Trib HSSN football rankings for Oct. 9, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
New faces take center ice for perennially powerful North Allegheny hockey program
North Allegheny always had a few familiar names among its top six forwards in recent years, experienced scorers who were there for multiple seasons. Yet, the Tigers are entering a winter of change.
Bethel Park’s offense plays keep away in win over No. 1 Upper St. Clair
October 7, 2022
“The most average line you’ve ever seen.”
5 things to watch in Week 6 of high school football
This could be a make-or-break week for some teams with conference title hopes.
Bethel Park, Upper St. Clair renew rivalry ranked 1st, 2nd in WPIAL Class 5A
October 6, 2022
Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair have combined for a few dramatic regular-season finales in recent years, but WPIAL schedule makers decided there’s no need to wait.
1st-time winners Beaver, Ligonier Valley among WPIAL Sportsmanship Award recipients
October 5, 2022
First-time winners Beaver and Ligonier Valley were among five schools named Wednesday as recipients of the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Award.
5 things we learned in Week 5: Rodney Gallagher makes history again
October 1, 2022
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher was 0-3 against conference foe Thomas Jefferson, and his Mustangs were outscored 160-3 in the first three years of his high school football career.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 2, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny embraces being viewed as underdog, now leads Class 6A
Saying the biggest high school in Western Pennsylvania was overlooked might seem unlikely, but when football season started, North Allegheny’s players didn’t hear much talk about themselves.
Brad Birch leads Gateway to rout of previously unbeaten Hempfield
September 30, 2022
Would anyone have been surprised if Gateway quarterback Brad Birch crashed the halftime homecoming ceremony, took the blue-and-white balloons and named himself Hempfield’s king?
5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football
In an ultra-competitive Class 5A, Bethel Park, Hempfield and Upper St. Clair are the only WPIAL teams that haven’t lost to a 5A opponent yet this season — a list that keeps getting shorter.
WPIAL rules East Allegheny transfer eligible for regular-season football but not playoffs
September 27, 2022
East Allegheny junior Amir Rollins, a transfer from Penn Hills, is allowed to play football in the regular season, but he remains ineligible for the playoffs, the WPIAL ruled Tuesday.
5 things we learned in Week 4: WPIAL upstarts winning over their doubters
September 24, 2022
The last time Mapletown started a season 5-0, longtime Maples coach George Messich was in middle school and the team’s quarterback was an older boy who lived next door.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 25, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Talented sophomores pacing defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams
At this time of year, North Allegheny’s cross country team doesn’t talk much about winning championships, even if the boys and girls are both defending state champs.
North Allegheny tops Central Catholic in low-scoring defensive battle
September 23, 2022
North Allegheny’s Campbell Melzer was upset with himself after missing a tackle on a fourth-quarter hitch route that put Central Catholic in scoring position for a late touchdown.
5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football
It wasn’t too long ago that West Allegheny was the team to beat in the Parkway Conference, back before the Indians made the jump to 5A.
Westinghouse cements itself as City League favorite with 38-7 win over Allderdice
Keyshawn Morsillo threw three touchdowns Thursday night and helped Westinghouse solidified itself as the team to beat in the City League with a 38-7 victory over Allderdice at Cupples Stadium.
Central Catholic, North Allegheny battle for edge in WPIAL’s unpredictable Class 6A
September 22, 2022
After watching the first few weeks, Central Catholic coach Terry Totten suggests a new plan for finding the best team in 6A.
WPIAL hopes ticket trend continues after topping $2 million in revenue last school year
September 19, 2022
The WPIAL sold more than $2 million in tickets last school year, a jump from recent pre-pandemic days that has the league in solid financial shape.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 17, 2022
September 17, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
5 things we learned in Week 3 of high school football
Pick a word: Unpredictable? Competitive? Chaotic?
Despite revamped roster, North Allegheny girls soccer again off to strong start
The North Allegheny girls soccer team had six starting spots open this season, more than half of the lineup, but what the Tigers also had was depth.
Peters Township overcomes 5 turnovers to defeat South Fayette in Allegheny Six opener
September 16, 2022
Peters Township freshman Reston Lehman scored his first two career touchdowns a minute apart Friday night, one to tie and one to take the lead as the Indians defeated South Fayette, 42-28, in an Allegheny Six opener filled with unpredictable moments.
1st-year QBs lead Peters Township, South Fayette into Allegheny Six opener
T.J. Plack handed the key for Peters Township’s offense to a first-year starting quarterback and told him to drive.
5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football
Ready or not, it’s conference time.
PIAA puts NIL debate on hold until October
September 14, 2022
A groundbreaking Name, Image and Likeness policy proposed by the PIAA must pass three separate votes to take effect, but that second vote won’t happen this week as initially thought.
Five things we learned in Week 2: WPIAL’s longest losing streak is over
September 10, 2022
Team captains Aaron Hobel and Brighton Mariacher are fourth-year players on Ellwood City’s football team, yet their senior class never had celebrated a win.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 10, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
New coach overhauls boys soccer program at ‘University of North Allegheny’
As a soccer coach who’d reached the college ranks, Manuel Montero wasn’t interested in coaching high school soccer again, but North Allegheny’s unofficial nickname intrigued him.
Penn Hills’ Amir Key scores 3 times in victory over Pine-Richland and his former coach
September 9, 2022
Jon LeDonne spent five seasons building Penn Hills into a big-play dynamo and saw that explosive energy work against his new team Friday night.
What to watch in Week 2: WPIAL’s top passing attack has showdown with Clairton
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart quarterback Nehemiah Azeem has already thrown for almost 700 yards and ranks as the top passer in the WPIAL, but his coach knows what skeptics are probably saying.
Conference opener takes Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne back to Penn Hills
September 7, 2022
Yuhas-McGinley Stadium holds fond memories for Jon LeDonne, but what kind of welcome will he receive there Friday night when he’s wearing green instead of the home team’s red and gold?
Hampton transfer Peter Kramer ineligible for basketball playoffs
September 6, 2022
Hampton transfer Peter Kramer, a standout shooting guard who won a WPIAL basketball title at Shady Side Academy, is ineligible for the playoffs this winter.
What we learned in Week 1: New WPIAL approach leads to competitive schedule
September 3, 2022
This was the most competitive Week 1 in recent WPIAL history, but that probably wasn’t a coincidence.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 4, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Schedule toughens for 5-time defending PIAA champion North Allegheny girls volleyball team
Section 1 is smaller this season, so the North Allegheny girls volleyball team had to fill some open dates on its schedule.
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins follows big blockers in run-heavy win over Sto-Rox
Cruce Brookins predicts that he and Steel Valley teammate Greg Smith could be crashing into one another on a college field in a year or two.
What to watch in Week 1: Laurel Highlands vs. Belle Vernon matches 2 top college recruits
September 2, 2022
Don’t be surprised if a few college coaches make an appearance at Belle Vernon’s football stadium.
Week 1 clash between Sto-Rox, Steel Valley comes 10 months later than they’d hoped
September 1, 2022
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins watched maybe a few minutes of last year’s WPIAL Class 2A final. Sto-Rox’s Josh Jenkins couldn’t stomach watching any.
Mohawk cancels Week 1 football game, Quaker Valley seeks new opponent
August 29, 2022
Mohawk canceled its football game for the second week in a row as authorities investigate hazing allegations involving the team.
Five things we learned from Week Zero of WPIAL football
August 27, 2022
When the Woodland Hills defense made a valiant goal-line stand in the fourth quarter Saturday, the result was a win for the Wolverines but also a much-needed win for WPIAL football.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Aug. 28, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Brad Birch perseveres in pressure-packed opener, lifting Gateway past Mt. Lebanon
Fourth-and-20 is a pressure situation no quarterback wants, but Brad Birch knew where the ball needed to go.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
August 26, 2022
Six for six.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
August 25, 2022
Six for six.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
Six for six.
After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
Six for six.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the specialists
August 24, 2022
A remarkable WPIAL record is about to turn 20.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 23, 2022
Safety is often the last line of defense, but having a good one can be a weapon for any team.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
Western Pennsylvania football was always known for its quarterbacks and linemen, but that’s changed in recent decades.
WPIAL title contender Clairton somehow flying under radar
August 22, 2022
Remember Clairton?
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
Brashear’s Ta’Mere Robinson is certainly one of the best linebackers in Western Pennsylvania. He’s one of the best in the country. But the Penn State recruit is still recovering from knee surgery, so there’s a good chance he won’t play his senior year.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 21, 2022
The athletes who play defensive line are maybe the most varied of any group in high school football.
WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Gateway among teams trying to squeeze into tight playoff field
August 20, 2022
Earning a WPIAL playoff spot in Class 5A was never easy, but the task becomes a little harder this year.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 19, 2022
High school football teams deploy a variety of offensive schemes, from no-huddle spreads to the wing-T.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 18, 2022
The storied history of WPIAL football often focuses on its legendary quarterbacks and, more recently, a string of standout defensive backs.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 17, 2022
How’s this for a good quarterback-receiver combination?
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 16, 2022
Take a look at the WPIAL rushing leaders from last season and you’ll notice four state champions.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
The race for the 2021 WPIAL passing title was a three-way battle between Gateway’s Brad Birch, Beaver Falls’ Jaren Brickner and Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen.
WPIAL reveals fall championship sites: football finals at Acrisure Stadium, Norwin
August 15, 2022
The WPIAL has chosen Norwin to host the Class 5A and 6A football finals, the two championship games that won’t be played at Acrisure Stadium this year.
Mars slowly but surely acclimating to coach Eric Kasperowicz’s system
August 14, 2022
A new coach, a new quarterback and a new playbook.
With 3rd straight WPIAL title secured, Central Valley’s goals don’t change
August 13, 2022
The Heinz Field clock was ticking down last fall on Central Valley’s third consecutive WPIAL title when coach Mark Lyons was approached by longtime assistant Shawn McCreary.
Expectations soar as defending state champ Aliquippa brings back loaded roster
After winning WPIAL and state championships, expectations couldn’t be any higher for an Aliquippa football team that brings almost everyone back.
Woodland Hills still running with the big dogs in Class 5A
August 12, 2022
Woodland Hills could’ve dropped down two classifications this season because of a statewide change in how enrollment numbers are counted, but the Wolverines declined.
Bolstered by improved offensive line, Gateway builds confidence for run at WPIAL title
August 11, 2022
Gateway’s offensive line was pushed around at times last season by some of the best defensive fronts in the WPIAL, but the Gators say they’re ready to bite back.
South Fayette looks to turn hard-luck losses into conference wins
August 10, 2022
There was a zero in the wins column, but South Fayette’s conference record didn’t tell the entire story.
Short on seniors, Peters Township looks for next wave to take over
Senior night promises to be a short affair at Peters Township.
New football coach Eric Kasperowicz wants to repeat Pine-Richland success at Mars
August 8, 2022
Last names were written on strips of tape and stuck to the forehead of Mars football helmets, a tool to help new coach Eric Kasperowicz and his assistants learn the names a little quicker.
Countdown to kickoff 2022: Cumberland Valley out to show it’s the right site (at the right price) for PIAA finals
August 4, 2022
When the PIAA awarded the state football championships to Cumberland Valley, the sudden exit from Hersheypark Stadium caught most by surprise.
WPIAL rules Thomas Jefferson QB ineligible, approves 2 South Fayette transfers
August 1, 2022
Thomas Jefferson quarterback Luke Kosko, a transfer from Seton LaSalle, was ruled ineligible for the upcoming football season after a hearing Monday with the WPIAL board.
Former WPIAL director organizes P3R youth track event at RMU Island Sports Center
Put away the stopwatches.
Summer camp success has Seneca Valley linebacker Chris D’Appolonia committed to ‘dream school’
July 31, 2022
A broken hand sidelined Seneca Valley linebacker Chris D’Appolonia for a couple of weeks last season and limited his game film, so he was determined this summer to show recruiters his full potential.
As Brashear’s other D1 linebacker, Kameron Cheatom ready to make a name for himself
July 28, 2022
On many other football teams, Kameron Cheatom would be the most talked about player on the roster. At Brashear, that title rightfully belongs to teammate Ta’Mere Robinson, the top-ranked recruit in Pennsylvania.
WPIAL approves extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa athlete injured in shooting
July 25, 2022
The WPIAL approved an extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa’s Antonyo “Sunny” Anderson, a multi-sport athlete who was seriously injured in a shooting 14 months ago.
Former North Allegheny decathlete Ayden Owens-Delerme finishes 4th at World Championships
Since his days running track at North Allegheny, Ayden Owens-Delerme has talked about winning world titles and Olympic medals. This weekend, the NCAA champion decathlete made his World Championships debut and proved those dreams aren’t too far off.
Q&A with new WPIAL executive director Scott Seltzer
July 24, 2022
Scott Seltzer had decided his time with the WPIAL was ending this summer after 13 years on the board and six as board president.
WPIAL administrator: High school NIL deals could lead to manipulation
July 19, 2022
Name, Image and Likeness deals could improve the lives of some high school athletes, but there’s also real concern about manipulation by misguided adults, says the WPIAL’s top administrator.
St. Louis Cardinals draft former Allderdice pitcher Tanner Jacobson in 10th round
Allderdice graduate Tanner Jacobson on Monday became the first player in the short history of Queens University baseball to be picked in the MLB Draft.
Baltimore Orioles draft former Canon-McMillan pitcher Cameron Weston
July 18, 2022
Former Canon-McMillan star Cameron Weston, who helped win WPIAL and PIAA baseball titles in 2018, was selected Monday in the eighth round of the MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles.
Seattle Mariners select North Allegheny’s Cole Young in 1st round of MLB Draft
July 17, 2022
Cole Young was introduced to the baseball world as an MLB Pitch, Hit & Run winner in 2014, hinting then that the 10-year-old from Franklin Park might have a bright future ahead.
Amazing year for North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens-Delerme continues at World Championships
July 16, 2022
Ayden Owens-Delerme appears nowadays on TV commercials in Arkansas for a local hospital system, but the recent NCAA decathlon champion is ready to take his track talents global.
TribLive HSSN Preseason Football All-Stars gather, excited for fresh faces
July 15, 2022
Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen is a three-year starter, but like many football players across the WPIAL, the senior has a little sense of unfamiliarity heading into the fall.
Brashear linebacker Ta’Mere Robinson chooses Penn State after Nittany Lions ‘stuck with me’
While on his official visit to Penn State, Ta’Mere Robinson had dinner with other recruits and each was asked to stand and introduce himself. Caught up in the moment, the Brashear senior admits he nearly got carried away.
PIAA may strengthen competitive-balance rule by adding all team sports, removing transfers
July 14, 2022
The PIAA appears ready to rewrite its competitive-balance rule to include all team sports while also making it easier to force successful teams into a higher classification.
MLB Draft ‘starting to feel real’ for North Allegheny’s Cole Young
Rather than fly to Los Angeles, Cole Young will spend Sunday closer to home, watching the MLB Draft on television, maybe from his house in Franklin Park. The recent North Allegheny graduate was invited to attend draft festivities on the West Coast, but the likely first-round pick wasn’t lured by the bright lights.
PIAA moves closer to allowing NIL deals for high school athletes
July 13, 2022
Local TV commercials might feature high school football players or a popular basketball star could sell ads on social media.
No more ‘Highway to Heinz,’ but WPIAL plans to hold 4 football finals at Acrisure Stadium
July 11, 2022
The WPIAL football playoffs no longer can be called the “Highway to Heinz,” but the league plans to use the newly named North Shore stadium again this fall for some of its high school football championships.
16-time WPIAL champion boys volleyball coach Dan Schall steps down at North Allegheny
July 9, 2022
Walking away from a defending state champion can be a tough call for a coach, but North Allegheny’s Dan Schall found it “maybe a bit easier” after winning four in a row the way his Tigers just did.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes
July 5, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Penn Hills’ Julian Dugger
July 4, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan named 2021-22 Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
As Eli Yofan celebrated on the 18th green at Cedarbrook Golf Course last fall, a thought unrelated to golf came into his head. He’d just shot a 1-under par round, leading Fox Chapel to a WPIAL team title, but his mind was already on winter.
Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen commits to Ivy League school
July 1, 2022
Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen, a dual-threat quarterback and one of the WPIAL’s top passers, committed Friday to Penn.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Cameron Lindsey
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Beaver’s Payton List, Mt. Lebanon’s Deirdre Flaherty top all-state softball awards
June 30, 2022
Mt. Lebanon catcher Deirdre Flaherty and Beaver pitcher Payton List topped the list of players earning all-state honors Thursday from the Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher
June 29, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
2022 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Bethel Park’s Evan Holewinski
June 27, 2022
2022 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
2022 TribLive HSSN Softball All-Stars
June 26, 2022
In WPIAL softball, there’s no requirement for underclassmen to wait their turn.
2022 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
This was a good year around the WPIAL for dominant pitchers and slick-fielding shortstops.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Allegheny’s Tyree Alualu
June 24, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Evan Holewinski pitches 3-hitter, Bethel Park wins back-to-back PIAA titles
June 17, 2022
UNIVERSITY PARK — Rarely does a WPIAL baseball team have a chance to win consecutive state titles, so Bethel Park tried to remember and repeat everything that worked a year ago.
7th-inning rally lifts Montour baseball to 1st state championship
June 16, 2022
UNIVERSITY PARK — This was a scene Montour senior Ryan Gallagher and his teammates had thought about for years, one where they’re together at Penn State celebrating a state baseball championship on the infield grass.
WPIAL notebook: Class 4A boys basketball crowded with champions after realignment
June 13, 2022
Lincoln Park and North Catholic have met in the WPIAL boys basketball finals four times in the past six seasons, but they won’t wait that long to face one another again.
WPIAL approves new basketball sections without addressing public-private concerns
The WPIAL considered some radical ideas such as splitting public and private school basketball teams into separate sections, but ultimately decided that’s a debate for another day.
Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer commits to Wisconsin
About two months after restarting his recruiting process, Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer committed Sunday to Wisconsin.
Schalls share final memorable season with North Allegheny boys volleyball
June 11, 2022
Caleb Schall comes from a family where his parents and two uncles played college volleyball, his grandfather won state volleyball titles as a high school coach and his dad now leads powerhouse North Allegheny.
North Allegheny boys volleyball draws PIAA championship rematch with Central Dauphin
June 10, 2022
Some things seem to never change.
Bethel Park eliminates West Allegheny, keeps alive hopes for PIAA championship repeat
June 9, 2022
Bethel Park has seen this story before: The baseball team comes up short in the WPIAL playoffs only to bounce back stronger in the state tournament behind a talented pitcher recruited to Kent State.
Don’t blame ‘WPIAL hangover’ for this PIAA 1st-round loss, says Mt. Lebanon coach
June 6, 2022
The Mt. Lebanon baseball team was on the practice field for a rare early-morning, split-squad scrimmage Saturday, just a few days after winning the WPIAL title. The Blue Devils had six days to get ready for their state playoff opener and tried to use them to their fullest.
Neshannock tops Frazier in WPIAL championship clash of undefeated 2A teams
June 3, 2022
Whenever a Neshannock batter stepped into the Lilley Field batter’s box Friday, a peculiar shout sometimes came from the dugout: Smile.
WPIAL postpones Thursday softball championship games to Friday
June 2, 2022
The WPIAL took a look at the weather forecast and decided to postpone its three softball finals from Thursday to Friday.
West Allegheny outlasts Peters Township to win school’s 5th WPIAL championship
June 1, 2022
Not much has come easy this season for West Allegheny, a team that battled through injuries and plenty of inconvenience to reach Wild Things Park.
Mt. Lebanon squeezes past Upper St. Clair for 1st WPIAL title since 2006
May 31, 2022
Mt. Lebanon waited 16 years for this celebration, so another hour and a half didn’t matter.
New Castle’s Maria Owens turns triple jump frustration into PIAA long jump gold
May 29, 2022
SHIPPENSBURG — New Castle senior Maria Owens was upset with herself a day earlier after a 17th-place finish in the triple jump, disappointed largely by a foul on a big jump.
Moon’s Mia Cochran wins unprecedented ‘triple’ at PIAA championships, celebrates team title alone
May 28, 2022
Moon Area’s Mia Cochran admits the competitor in her likes a challenge, but she hasn’t found many on the track recently.
WPIAL runners sweep 3,200-meter races at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Eden Christian’s Sean Aiken attempted the 3,200 meters for the first time a couple of months ago, and he really didn’t like running nearly two miles.
Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy celebrates another come-from-behind win at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Carson McCoy apologized after his latest come-from-behind victory, knowing he’d just ruthlessly dashed the hopes of the same opponent for the third time.
Shenango thrower Emma Callahan ties shot put record at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — The target distance on Shenango thrower Emma Callahan’s mind was 50 feet, 10¾ inches, which was the state championship record for girls shot put in Class 2A.
Moon’s Mia Cochran wins 1,600 meters, wants 2 more golds at busy PIAA championship
May 27, 2022
SHIPPENSBURG — After defending her state 1,600-meter title Friday morning, Moon’s Mia Cochran revealed the top item on her afternoon agenda.
Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy defends 1,600-meter title at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Carson McCoy maybe isn’t a front runner, yet the Deer Lakes senior usually crosses the finish line first.
As Emma Callahan chases shot put records, spotlight shines on Shenango’s success
May 26, 2022
From Emma Callahan’s view, she’d just set a WPIAL championship record, but the Shenango shot putter also knew it’s hard to see from the circle.
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher commits to play football at West Virginia
May 25, 2022
Keeping his family close was important to Rodney Gallagher, so he did what countless other Western Pennsylvania football recruits have done and committed to his hometown team.
Bethel Park hires former WPIAL basketball star Dante Calabria as boys coach
Dante Calabria, a former WPIAL basketball star who won a national championship at North Carolina, was hired Tuesday as boys coach at Bethel Park.
No. 1 Mt. Lebanon breaks ‘curse’ with quarterfinal win over Seneca Valley
May 23, 2022
A seventh-inning curveball glanced off Mt. Lebanon catcher Paul Connolly’s mitt and rolled away, causing a moment of panic since there was a runner on third and a one-run lead.
Pine-Richland relay sprints to school record, WPIAL gold medal
May 22, 2022
Luke Rudolph insisted he’s not as fast as the relay runner he replaced, but the results say otherwise.
North Catholic sprinter Trevor Paschall’s season in question after WPIAL championship injury
May 19, 2022
North Catholic’s Trevor Paschall is usually sprinting around the WPIAL track championships faster than most anybody, but Wednesday he accepted help from a teammate just to walk.
Moon’s Mia Cochran adding to track legacy by winning 3 WPIAL individual titles
May 18, 2022
What more could Mia Cochran have to prove?
Life journey of North Allegheny runners Wren and Robin Kucler covers thousands of miles
As an 8-year-old, Wren Kucler told her mom she wanted to run around the house 100 times. That’s a lot of running for a little girl, but her mom Deanna saw no reason to discourage her, so she said, “Go ahead. Knock yourself out.”
South Fayette’s Tyler Pitzer dazzles Franklin Regional with 5-inning perfect game
This outing was perfect for South Fayette pitcher Tyler Pitzer in more ways than one.
WPIAL hires chief operating officer to ease workload of executive director
May 16, 2022
The role of the WPIAL executive director has changed over the years, with social media bringing more and more issues to the league’s attention, said outgoing director Amy Scheuneman.
WPIAL baseball playoff bracket breakdown
May 13, 2022
Favorite: Mt. Lebanon could win its first WPIAL baseball title since 2006. The Blue Devils started this season 1-4 before finding their stride in section play behind OF Tanner Donati (.435, 20 RBIs, 12 extra-base hits). They’ve won 10 of their past 12 games, including a 2-1 victory over North Allegheny. Seniors Derrick Shields and Jack Smith combined are 7-1 with 89 Ks in 61 innings. Shields is an IUP recruit and Smith is headed to Harvard.
WPIAL announces 2022 baseball playoff brackets
Montour hasn’t won a WPIAL baseball title in 50 years, but the Spartans will start this year’s playoffs as the favorites in Class 4A.
Defending champions Beaver, West Greene among No. 1 seeds in WPIAL softball playoffs
May 12, 2022
Two undefeated teams. Two more strong section champions. A defending WPIAL champion with only three losses.
WPIAL reveals brackets for boys, girls lacrosse playoffs
The defending champion Mars boys and Shady Side Academy girls were among the four teams that earned top seeds in the WPIAL lacrosse playoff brackets revealed Thursday.
Butler boys dominate field, win WPIAL Class 3A team track title
May 11, 2022
The Butler boys arrived at the WPIAL team championships with a mission: eliminate any suspense about who might be the winner.
Tim McConnell accepts Bishop Canevin job after resigning as Chartiers Valley coach
Tim McConnell had walked into Chartiers Valley’s gym countless times, but the longtime basketball coach felt somewhat sentimental when he entered Tuesday morning.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero commits to play basketball at Kentucky
May 8, 2022
Quaker Valley senior Adou Thiero committed Sunday to play basketball for Kentucky and coach John Calipari, who also coached Thiero’s father at Memphis in the early 2000s.
WPIAL trio earns all-state honors in Class 6A boys basketball
The PIAA’s largest boys basketball classification is often dominated by Eastern Pennsylvania teams, but three WPIAL players made the all-state team for Class 6A.
WPIAL Hall of Fame inductee Burke blazed trail for women’s sports in Western Pennsylvania
May 7, 2022
The WPIAL has been around for more than 100 years, but the organization was exclusively for boys until Ruth Ann Burke and some like-minded colleagues insisted that must change.
TribHSSN baseball rankings for May 8, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending May 8, 2022
Class 6A
‘Fearless’ Connor Smith emerges as North Allegheny’s ace
Connor Smith likes to experiment with his pitch grips, so when his favorite MLB pitcher shared a splitter setup on a podcast, the North Allegheny right-hander had to give it a try.
Rain soaks Baldwin Invitational but doesn’t dim Quaker Valley hurdler’s sunny outlook
A cold rain drenched everyone at the Baldwin Invitational, but Quaker Valley hurdler Nora Johns was among those not too bothered by the wet weather.
WPIAL lands 3 players on Class 5A all-state boys basketball team
New Castle and Laurel Highlands combined for one of the most competitive WPIAL finals in recent memory, a matchup decided in double overtime by two last-second free throws.
Quaker Valley teammates, coach Mike Mastroianni earn all-state honors in Class 4A
May 6, 2022
Adou Thiero and Markus Frank formed a dynamic duo for Quaker Valley, which celebrated the most successful boys basketball season in school history this winter.
Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine among 4 all-state selections from WPIAL Class 3A
May 5, 2022
Steel Valley junior Makhai Valentine, who ranked among the WPIAL’s top scorers this winter, earned first-team all-state honors Thursday when the Class 3A awards were announced.
OLSH’s Jake DiMichele, coach Mike Rodriguez earn top honors on Class 2A all-state team
May 4, 2022
Jake DiMichele went three years without a loss as Our Lady of the Sacred Heart won its second state title this winter and tied a state record with a 68-game winning streak in a historic season. DiMichele, a senior, finished his high school career as the second-leading scorer in WPIAL history with 2,642 points.
No shot clock for Pennsylvania high schools, says PIAA basketball committee
May 3, 2022
Time is running out for shot clock advocates.
WPIAL postpones team track semifinals to Wednesday
The WPIAL postponed its team track semifinals to Wednesday because of an unfavorable weather forecast Tuesday that included afternoon rain and possible thunderstorms.
Bishop Canevin teammates, coach Gino Palmosina earn Class A boys basketball all-state honors
Bishop Canevin celebrated the school’s first boys basketball state title this winter and the Crusaders were rewarded for that accomplishment again Tuesday.
All-state boys basketball teams to be announced this week starting with non-PIAA schools
May 2, 2022
The boys basketball all-state teams will be announced one classification per day this week starting with non-PIAA schools.
Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending May 1, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny, 5 other schools join Steelers-sponsored girls flag football league
There’s a new high school football league in Western Pennsylvania sponsored by the Pittsburgh Steelers and created entirely for girls.
21 WPIAL girls basketball players earn all-state honors, Neshannock’s Luann Grybowski named top coach
April 28, 2022
Twenty-one WPIAL girls basketball players earned all-state honors Thursday, and Neshannock’s Luann Grybowski was named Class 2A Coach of the Year after leading the Lancers to a state championship this winter.
Former South Fayette softball player Lauren Bernett dies
April 26, 2022
The James Madison softball program Tuesday was mourning the death of sophomore catcher Lauren Bernett, a South Fayette graduate who helped the Dukes reach the College World Series a year ago.
WPIAL hires board president Scott Seltzer as executive director
April 25, 2022
WPIAL board president Scott Seltzer will take over as executive director this summer, replacing outgoing director Amy Scheuneman as the league’s top administrator.
Pitt, Penn State, WVU among college finalists for Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher
April 24, 2022
Pitt, Penn State and West Virginia remain in the hunt for Laurel Highland’s Rodney Gallagher, the state’s top football recruit in the 2023 class.
TribHSSN WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 24, 2022
Class 6A
Gino Palmosina resigns at Canevin weeks after winning PIAA boys basketball title
April 22, 2022
Boys basketball coach Gino Palmosina is a candidate for a job elsewhere, so he resigned Thursday from alma mater Bishop Canevin, where he won WPIAL and state titles this winter.
Simmering public vs. private dispute leads Bishop Canevin contingent to protest at Carlynton track meet
April 21, 2022
The always-contentious public vs. private debate usually sticks to high school football and basketball, but a track meet became the backdrop for an unprecedented student protest.
Delayed 2 years by pandemic, PIHL adds girls division for high school hockey
April 17, 2022
Morgan Black was the leading scorer on a national championship hockey team this winter, but she has never worn her high school’s logo on any jersey. That’s because for a girl to play high school hockey in Western Pennsylvania, she always had to play against the boys.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 16, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny Athletic Hall of Fame class offers tribute to 50th anniversary of Title IX
State champion swimmer Jacquelyn Du and record-setting field hockey player Emily Humiston are among 11 individuals chosen for induction into the North Allegheny Athletic Hall of Fame this year.
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman joining Pittsburgh Marathon organizer P3R
April 15, 2022
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman is leaving her job as the district’s top administrator to join P3R, which organizes races in Western Pennsylvania, including the Pittsburgh Marathon.
Amy Scheuneman resigning as WPIAL executive director after spring sports championships
April 14, 2022
Amy Scheuneman’s tenure as WPIAL executive director is ending this spring after two years.
WPIAL athletic directors want basketball sections divided by ability not enrollment
What if basketball sections were determined by a team’s talent level rather than its school enrollment?
WPIAL notebook: Kiski Area doesn’t want to share section with Penn Hills
April 13, 2022
The racially charged dispute between Penn Hills and Kiski Area wasn’t resolved, so the WPIAL may keep those teams apart in future years.
WPIAL announces James Collins Scholar/Athlete Award winners
The WPIAL on Wednesday announced winners of the James Collins Scholar/Athlete Awards. This is the 31st year for the awards, which include a $1,000 scholarship for each recipient.
Mars hires former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 12, 2022
Only four miles separate the football stadiums of Pine-Richland and Mars, but the journey that took Eric Kasperowicz from one to the other followed a winding road.
Football coach Eric Kasperowicz poised to make WPIAL return at Mars
April 11, 2022
Mars is prepared to hire football coach Eric Kasperowicz, bringing the two-time state champion coach back to the WPIAL a year after his ouster at Pine-Richland.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 9, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny softball team confident after strong start to 2022 season
Morgan Vescovi was hired as North Allegheny’s softball coach in 2019, but counting seasons is always a tricky task because the pandemic erased 2020.
Trinity hires former Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause
April 8, 2022
After working five years to build up his alma mater’s football program, coach Dan Knause will take on a new project elsewhere.
Lacrosse officials demand pay increase in disruptive dispute with WPIAL schools
April 6, 2022
A number of Western Pennsylvania boys lacrosse officials are taking a timeout from working varsity games unless WPIAL schools give them a pay raise.
North Catholic hires former Pitt, Duquesne basketball assistant as athletic director
April 5, 2022
Bill Barton, a former assistant college basketball coach at Pitt and Duquesne, is returning to Western Pennsylvania as athletic director at North Catholic.
WPIAL lacrosse match rescheduled after officials decline to accept assignment
A simmering discontent by officials about pay and travel forced Trinity to reschedule a boys lacrosse game, but the WPIAL was optimistic the season won’t be disrupted by a widespread work stoppage.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero named 2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
April 4, 2022
2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars | Terrific 10
This was a history-making year for WPIAL boys basketball with Our Lady of the Sacred Heart leading the way.
2022 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball All-Stars | Terrific 10
This season marked the end of an era for some WPIAL girls basketball programs or maybe just the beginning for others.
TribHSSN softball rankings for April 2, 2022
Class 6A
With big-time talent, North Allegheny baseball team sets big goals
At least a dozen pro scouts watched North Allegheny’s baseball scrimmage, an early indication the Tigers have an eventful season ahead.
Butler files lawsuit against PIAA in fight over District 10 football playoffs
March 31, 2022
The WPIAL has no grounds to ban the Butler football team from the District 10 playoffs, says a lawsuit the school district has filed against the PIAA.
Philadelphia basketball teams are here to stay in PIAA, says District 12 chairman
Philadelphia teams joined the PIAA basketball playoffs less than two decades ago, and District 12’s top administrator says his schools are here to stay, despite any wishful thinking by opponents.
PIAA to survey schools about adding basketball shot clock in 2024
March 30, 2022
Reset the clock.
PIAA basketball committee readies for shot clock discussion this week
March 29, 2022
Shot clock or no shot clock?
Philadelphia basketball teams are here to stay in PIAA, says District 12 chairman
March 28, 2022
Philadelphia teams joined the PIAA basketball playoffs less than two decades ago, but District 12’s top administrator says his schools are here to stay, despite any wishful thinking by opponents.
Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause resigns after 5 seasons for job elsewhere
Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause is a candidate for a job elsewhere, so he resigned Monday after five seasons with the Colts.
Public school criticism of state basketball playoffs ‘sour grapes,’ says PIAA director
Traditional public schools won only two of the 12 state basketball titles celebrated this weekend in Hershey, the fewest since the PIAA expanded the sport to six classifications in 2016.
Long scoreless stretch dashes Aliquippa’s hopes for state basketball title
March 26, 2022
HERSHEY — Aliquippa reached the state finals with four sophomores in the starting lineup, and that youth maybe showed itself at the worst time.
Freedom falls to Neumann-Goretti in 1st state championship appearance
HERSHEY – Freedom wanted to win a state title in its first trip to Hershey, but the championship trophy went home with a team that already owned four.
2022 PIAA Class 3A girls basketball championship breakdown: Freedom vs. Neumann-Goretti
PIAA Class 3A girls basketball final
2022 PIAA Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Devon Prep
PIAA Class 3A boys basketball final
Nationally ranked Imhotep Charter dashes New Castle’s hopes for state championship
March 25, 2022
HERSHEY — New Castle wanted to hold for the final shot of the first half, yet Imhotep Charter grabbed a rebound, hit a buzzer-beating 3 and ran to the locker room up 11.
OLSH wins historic PIAA title, ties state record with 68 straight wins
HERSHEY — “Historic” is now the perfect word to describe Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s dominance.
2022 PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: New Castle vs. Imhotep Charter
PIAA Class 5A boys basketball final
2022 PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Constitution
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball final
Quaker Valley falls to Philadelphia power Neumann-Goretti in state finals
March 24, 2022
HERSHEY — Adou Thiero blocked three first-quarter shots, Quaker Valley scored 11 consecutive points and the Quakers held a slim lead over an eight-time state champion.
Balanced attack earns Bishop Canevin 1st PIAA boys basketball title
HERSHEY — This state championship celebration was years in the making for Bishop Canevin, with some waiting longer than others to see the Crusaders finally win one.
2022 PIAA Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Quaker Valley vs. Neumann-Goretti
PIAA Class 4A boys basketball final
Potential NFL path draws Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer to Boston College
March 23, 2022
Jordan Mayer is very good at getting his arms around quarterbacks, but when the Thomas Jefferson junior committed to Boston College, he was the one wrapped up.
PIAA semifinal win gives Aliquippa chance for rare football-basketball championship double
March 19, 2022
Aliquippa is headed to Hershey for the second time in three months, chasing after a rare football-basketball double state championship.
Rumpler 2nd-place finish at states a boon for North Allegheny girls wrestling team
North Allegheny didn’t have a girls wresting team two years ago, yet the Tigers saw a girl finish second in the state this winter.
Mike Wells shakes off sore elbow, leads New Castle to 1st PIAA finals since ’14
March 18, 2022
Mike Wells’ elbow was still hurting him, but that didn’t hide his happiness as New Castle fans rained Hershey’s Kisses on the Red Hurricanes’ postgame celebration.
PIAA reveals sites, times for state basketball semifinals
March 17, 2022
Peters Township will host a PIAA semifinal Saturday between the Chartiers Valley and McKeesport girls, one of four all-WPIAL pairings in the final four of the state basketball tournament.
Aliquippa finds ‘happy balance,’ tops Avonworth for 3rd time in PIAA quarterfinals
March 16, 2022
After missing a few long jumpers in the first quarter, Aliquippa’s D.J. Walker understood why he was being called to the bench and the junior didn’t argue.
PIAA announces sites, times for Friday’s state basketball semifinals
The PIAA chose Norwin as host site for the rematch of New Castle and Gateway, one of two all-WPIAL pairings in the state basketball semifinals.
New Castle wins ‘fist fight’ over Penn Hills in low-scoring PIAA quarterfinal
How do you describe a game with more than a dozen blocks, more than two dozen turnovers, and the first team to score 40 points won?
Gateway stuns Laurel Highlands, earns 1st appearance in state basketball semifinals
March 15, 2022
There will be a WPIAL rematch in the state semifinals, but Laurel Highlands won’t be there.
WPIAL approves new section alignment for next 2 wrestling seasons
March 14, 2022
Say goodbye to the subsections.
WPIAL rejects Butler’s compromise, leaving football team ineligible for District 10 playoffs
The WPIAL rejected a compromise offered Monday by Butler’s administration that would’ve let the school’s football team play in the District 10 playoffs for the next two seasons.
‘Relentless’ Fox Chapel tops Allderdice in PIAA battle of district champions
March 12, 2022
With only one player taller than 6-foot-2, Fox Chapel maybe doesn’t look like a team built to outrebound many opponents.
PIAA announces sites, times for Tuesday’s basketball quarterfinals
The WPIAL is guaranteed to have a boys team in the Class 5A state championship with Laurel Highlands, New Castle, Gateway and Penn Hills all reaching the quarterfinals.
Unbeaten Laurel Highlands rallies past Highlands in OT, moves into quarterfinals
March 11, 2022
Laurel Highlands celebrated its 27th consecutive win Friday night, but this victory over Highlands followed a different script than the first 26.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times set for 2nd round playoff games
March 10, 2022
Section foes South Fayette and Moon will meet for the third time this season Saturday in a PIAA second-round playoff game at Peters Township.
PIAA announces playoff sites, times for boys basketball 2nd round
Peters Township will host a clash of champions Saturday when WPIAL champion Fox Chapel faces City League champion Allderdice in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.
Allderdice advances in PIAA playoffs with overtime win against Central Catholic
March 9, 2022
Mike Quigley has a favorite rim in Allderdice’s gym, one that he’s found is a little softer than the other.
Penn Hills refuses to play Kiski Area sports teams this spring over alleged racial taunts
Penn Hills won’t play games against Kiski Area teams this spring because of racial taunts allegedly made by fans during a recent middle school volleyball game.
PIAA releases sites, times for Friday 2nd-round basketball playoff games
The PIAA released sites and times for second-round matchups in the state basketball playoff scheduled for Friday.
‘Special run’ might await Quaker Valley after PIAA 1st-round win over Hickory
March 8, 2022
The Hickory boys basketball team was in Hershey last winter, playing at Giant Center with a chance to win a state championship.
After incident in WPIAL semifinals, should postgame handshake lines continue?
March 7, 2022
Should handshake lines disappear from the WPIAL?
Sites, times revealed for 2022 PIAA girls basketball 1st-round playoff games
March 6, 2022
The PIAA on Sunday posted sites and times for first-round games in the state girls basketball playoffs. Here’s a list of games involving WPIAL and City League teams.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2022 boys basketball 1st-round playoff games
The PIAA on Sunday posted sites and times for first-round games in the state boys basketball playoffs. Here’s a list of games involving WPIAL and City League teams.
Fox Chapel stuns top-seeded North Hills to win 1st WPIAL title in 45 years
March 5, 2022
Eli Yofan celebrated with the WPIAL trophy in his hands Saturday night, but he also acknowledged the fingerprints his teammates left all over this championship win.
2022 WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: North Hills vs. Fox Chapel
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball
2022 WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Fort Cherry
WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball
Rodney Gallagher’s free throws in final second of double OT lift Laurel Highlands past New Castle in WPIAL Class 5A final
March 4, 2022
Same arena. Same prize. There was a little less time on the clock when Rodney Gallagher walked to the foul line this year, but he made sure the outcome was also exactly the same.
2022 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Laurel Highlands vs. New Castle
No. 1 Laurel Highlands vs. No. 2 New Castle
2022 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Shady Side Academy vs. Avonworth
No. 3 Shady Side Academy vs. No. 8 Avonworth
Adou Thiero seals victory as Quaker Valley edges Montour for WPIAL Class 4A title
March 3, 2022
Adou Thiero endured the pain of a fractured thumb to avoid the hurt of another silver medal.
2022 Big School East-West roster includes nearly 2 dozen WPIAL, City League players
State champions from Aliquippa, Mt. Lebanon and Penn-Trafford were among nearly two dozen WPIAL and City League players announced Thursday as all-stars for the Big School East-West Game this spring.
11 WPIAL, City League football players picked for 2022 Small School East-West Game
The WPIAL’s leading rusher was among 11 WPIAL and City League players chosen Thursday for the Small School East-West Game this spring.
2022 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Quaker Valley vs. Montour
No. 1 Quaker Valley vs. No. 2 Montour
What to watch in WPIAL finals: North Hills boys, 3 others seek 1st basketball title
North Hills senior Alex Smith and his older brother Nick have a strong sibling rivalry that carries over to the basketball court.
No. 1 North Hills reaches WPIAL finals with low-scoring win over Mt. Lebanon
March 1, 2022
Mt. Lebanon is notorious for consuming clock with long possessions, but when the Blue Devils did so Tuesday night, it was often because they found no easy route to the rim.
14 WPIAL players chosen for 2022 Big 33 Football Classic
Fourteen players from the WPIAL were selected Tuesday for the Big 33 Football Classic, including four from Mt. Lebanon’s state championship team and two from Penn-Trafford.
Defending champion New Castle reaches WPIAL finals for 8th time in 11 years
February 28, 2022
The road to the WPIAL championship winds through gyms all across Western Pennsylvania, but New Castle rarely gets lost along the way.
North Allegheny relies on balance in quest for 3rd straight Penguins Cup championship
February 27, 2022
As the hockey schedule reached late February, North Allegheny’s Connor Chi pushed his season-long scoring streak to 19 games. The senior recorded at least one goal or assist in every contest, cementing his spot as an elite scorer.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero scores 25 in semifinal win despite fractured thumb
February 26, 2022
Adou Thiero wore tape on the knee he injured last winter and a wrap on the thumb he fractured earlier this week.
Freshman Rylee Kalocay’s late-game heroics take Upper St. Clair back to WPIAL finals
Upper St. Clair freshman Rylee Kalocay didn’t start Saturday’s semifinal, but she certainly finished it.
No. 1 North Hills celebrates 4th win over rival North Allegheny in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 25, 2022
As the saying goes, it’s tough to beat a basketball team three times in one season, but what about four? The sold-out crowd that packed into North Hills’ gym was there to find out.
Ellwood City basketball coach Steve Antuono suspended 2 games after chaotic playoff loss
Game officials imposed a two-game suspension on Ellwood City boys basketball coach Steve Antuono for unsportsmanlike actions during a chaotic ending to Thursday night’s playoff loss.
Gateway upsets No. 3 Mars, earns 1st WPIAL semifinal appearance since 2012
February 24, 2022
Gateway was only a couple of minute away from upsetting No. 3 seed Mars, but for the Gators, those final moments seemed to last forever.
Schools get some say as WPIAL releases football schedules for 2022, ’23 seasons
The WPIAL tried a new approach for scheduling nonconference football games this year by giving teams a say in who they play.
WPIAL schedules 3 basketball semifinals at Robert Morris’ UPMC Events Center
The WPIAL has scheduled three basketball semifinals at Robert Morris’ UPMC Events Center on Saturday starting with top-seeded Quaker Valley facing defending champion Lincoln Park in a Class 4A boys game at noon.
Confident and now healthy, star freshman Meleek Thomas leads Lincoln Park past North Catholic
Sharing the court with a couple of scorers bound for Division I colleges might make some freshmen timid. Not Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas, who waved for the basketball when the Leopards needed a fourth-quarter boost Wednesday night.
Butler plans legal action after PIAA upholds WPIAL ruling keeping football team out of District 10 playoffs
February 23, 2022
Butler intends to take legal action after the PIAA upheld a decision banning the football team from the District 10 playoffs, said the school’s athletic director.
PIAA football, soccer championships moving from Hershey to Cumberland Valley
Say goodbye to flying Hershey’s Kisses and giant chocolate bars. Pennsylvania high school athletes will have to find a new way to celebrate trips to the state championships.
Strong 1st quarter leads No. 8 North Allegheny past No. 9 Baldwin in WPIAL playoff opener
February 22, 2022
Tuesday marked the playoff opener for the North Allegheny boys, but the Tigers felt they’d already had a postseason mindset for a while now.
Steel Valley knocks out No. 4 Seton LaSalle with 1-2 punch in WPIAL playoff upset
February 21, 2022
Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine wears No. 1 and teammate Cruce Brookins is No. 2, fitting for a combination that delivered a knockout punch Monday night.
WPIAL suspends former Greensburg Central Catholic assistant football coach for recruiting
The WPIAL has suspended a former Greensburg Central Catholic assistant football coach for violating PIAA rules against recruiting.
North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens lands at Arkansas with record-setting splash
February 19, 2022
Ayden Owens felt the sunshine of Southern California and the cold of Ann Arbor, Mich., in his first three years of college. Nowadays, you’ll find the former North Allegheny star breaking track and field records down south in Fayetteville, Ark.
Grandfather-grandson duo works together officiating WPIAL basketball games
February 17, 2022
When Matthew White was a little kid, he enjoyed going to high school basketball games and seeing the officials, because his grandfather was one of them.
WPIAL asks playoff basketball teams: ‘What have you done for me lately?’
February 15, 2022
The WPIAL basketball committee had a question for playoff teams: “What have you done for me lately?”
Breaking down the 2022 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 14, 2022
Class 6A
Tough decisions prompt debate as WPIAL announces 2021-22 basketball playoff brackets
Laurel Highlands or New Castle? Mt. Lebanon or North Allegheny?
North Allegheny’s Cole Young projected as 1st-round pick in MLB Draft
February 13, 2022
Cole Young has a Twitter account, so the North Allegheny senior usually notices whenever someone publishes a new MLB mock draft or an updated list of high school baseball prospects.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 girls basketball pairings
The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 boys basketball pairings
February 12, 2022
The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 13, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 13, 2022
Class 6A
Fox Chapel survives Eli Yofan injury scare, clinches sole possession of section title
February 11, 2022
Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan went from laying under the hoop in pain in the third quarter to swinging on the rim in celebration in the fourth.
WPIAL asks Greensburg Central Catholic to explain possible recruiting violations
February 10, 2022
The WPIAL is looking into possible recruiting violations by Greensburg Central Catholic.
North Allegheny wrestling coach Sunny Abe resigns prior to postseason tournaments
February 9, 2022
North Allegheny wrestling coach Sanshiro “Sunny” Abe, a former NCAA champion and Olympic wrestler, resigned with one meet left in the regular season and the individual tournaments still ahead.
New Castle’s Joe Cowart resigns after 10 seasons, sent 2 former players to NFL
Not many WPIAL football coaches have had two former players active in the NFL at the same time, but New Castle’s Joe Cowart did during his coaching tenure, which came to a close this winter.
Aliquippa ‘hitting stride,’ defeats Seton LaSalle for 1st-place tie in Section 2
A young basketball team can age considerably in the short span of 25 days.
Pine-Richland hires Penn Hills’ Jon LeDonne as football coach
February 7, 2022
As a parent with three kids in the district, Jon LeDonne already wore a number of hats around Pine-Richland. Scorekeeper for middle school basketball. Coach for a fourth-grade girls team. Scorers’ table duty at youth wrestling matches.
Mt. Lebanon’s Bob Palko named Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year
February 6, 2022
Mt. Lebanon football coach Bob Palko, who led the Blue Devils to their first state championship, was named the 2021 Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year on Sunday.
With longtime coach out of retirement, North Allegheny swim teams out to achieve more excellence
Longtime North Allegheny swimming coach Corky Semler didn’t hesitate when athletic director Bob Bozzuto asked if he was interested in coming out of retirement this winter.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for Feb. 5, 2022
Class 6A
Butler finds ‘desperation mode,’ boosts playoffs hopes by defeating Pine-Richland
One team in Butler’s brutal section may be left home when the playoffs start, which has the Golden Tornado convinced it can’t lose another game.
WPIAL delays release of football schedules over ‘unique situation’ with Aliquippa
February 3, 2022
The WPIAL decided not to release new football schedules this week because of a “unique situation” facing one of its schools.
Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2023
Some of the nation’s top college football recruiters will visit Western Pennsylvania often in the coming months, because the WPIAL and City League have an uncommitted four-star Rivals recruit in the 2023 class.
WPIAL disciplines South Side, Steel Valley football after hearing on racial allegations
February 2, 2022
The South Side and Steel Valley football teams must complete educational training organized by the WPIAL to “further develop cultural competency” after their playoff game in November ended with accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct and racial slurs.
Shady Side Academy tops No. 4 South Allegheny to narrow section title race
Shady Side Academy used quickness and aggression to build a 10-point, fourth-quarter lead Tuesday night, a favorable position where many teams might then slow the tempo.
Clairton’s Tyler Boyd extends Super Bowl streak for Big 33 Football Classic
January 31, 2022
Thanks to former Clairton star Tyler Boyd, the Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak lives on.
TribHSSN girls basketball rankings for Jan. 29, 2022
Class 6A
Greensburg Central Catholic boys hold off Winchester Thurston, take over 1st place
January 28, 2022
Greensburg Central Catholic and Winchester Thurston were scheduled to meet three weeks ago, but that boys basketball game was postponed, so the teams could only study one another from a distance.
Aliquippa plans to build new football stadium, receives $250,000 from NFL
Aliquippa’s aging football stadium will be torn down and rebuilt this year with a little help from the NFL.
Hampton hiring new football coach as Jacque DeMatteo ends 14-year stint
January 27, 2022
For the first time in 14 years, Hampton soon will have a new football coach.
Aliquippa wins PIAA appeal, remains in Class 4A football
January 26, 2022
Add another win to Aliquippa’s record.
Moon’s Mia Cochran repeats as Pa. Gatorade girls cross country award winner
January 25, 2022
Moon’s Mia Cochran has defended yet another cross country title.
With heavy hearts, OLSH ties WPIAL record for longest winning streak
As Our Lady of the Sacred Heart made WPIAL history Monday night, the boys basketball team wasn’t focused on what it was playing for, but rather who.
Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza commits to Navy football, joining Blue Devils teammate
January 24, 2022
Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza has played football with teammate Eli Heidenreich for as long as he can remember. As it turns out, high school graduation won’t break their bond.
TribHSSN girls basketball rankings for Jan. 22, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny AD Bozzuto sees future Class 6A football alignment with larger field
North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto has a forward-thinking mindset when it comes to football conference realignment. The ink barely has dried on WPIAL plans for the next two seasons, but he’s ready to start thinking about 2024 and ’25.
Markus Frank’s knack around basket leads unbeaten Quaker Valley past Lincoln Park
Quaker Valley’s Markus Frank has a knack for scoring around the rim from angles that seem almost impossible, yet he makes them with ease.
Former football coach Eric Kasperowicz drops lawsuit against Pine-Richland, hopes to reclaim job
January 21, 2022
Former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz is dropping his defamation lawsuit against the school district and its administrators in hopes of reclaiming his coaching job.
Laurel girls basketball coach resigns midseason, says ‘hand was forced’
January 20, 2022
The Laurel girls basketball team is trying to reach the WPIAL playoffs for the fifth year in a row, but the Spartans must do so without their head coach.
Imani Christian hires LaRoi Johnson as football coach
Football coach LaRoi Johnson is returning to his roots.
WPIAL notebook: Golf adds 36-hole format for individual championships
To win a WPIAL golf title next season, players must make the cut and play two good rounds.
WPIAL announces 2022 Hall of Fame class
January 19, 2022
Bob Kalp won more than 400 games as Hempfield’s softball coach, and Chuck Tursky celebrated his 500th career win as Kiski Area’s wrestling coach.
WPIAL board blocks Butler from District 10 football playoffs
The WPIAL two years ago gave Butler permission to play football in District 10 as an “associate member,” but there now is a dispute about whether the Golden Tornado can qualify for that district’s playoffs.
WPIAL reveals updated conference alignments for 2022, 2023 seasons
January 18, 2022
The WPIAL took a multiple-choice approach when it drew up new conferences for the 2022 and ‘23 football seasons.
3 options WPIAL could take with Class 6A football realignment
Tuesday should be a big day for WPIAL football players, coaches and fans.
Trib HSSN WPIAL Girls Basketball Rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2022
January 15, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman named Pa. Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year
Whenever the North Allegheny girls volleyball team wins a title, the Tigers have a knack for winning it again and again.
LA Pratt’s game-winner lifts Lincoln Park to 2-point win over Montour
January 14, 2022
Lincoln Park saw a 15-point lead vanish Friday night, but that was all forgotten once senior LA Pratt made a clutch runner with five seconds left to lift the Leopards to a 51-49 victory over Montour in a battle of ranked teams.
Ellwood City hires ‘proven winner’ Dan Bradley to fix struggling football program
Ellwood City hired former OLSH football coach Dan Bradley on Thursday to fix a distressed program that hasn’t won a game in three seasons.
PIAA denies Aliquippa appeal asking to avoid promotion to Class 5A football
January 13, 2022
The PIAA on Thursday denied an initial appeal from Aliquippa, which wants to avoid a pending promotion to Class 5A football next season.
MLK Day basketball showcase moves to Central Pa., still includes 5 WPIAL teams
The MLK Day basketball showcase that recently called Woodland Hills home has shifted about 150 miles east, but this weekend’s event still has some WPIAL teams taking part.
2 WPIAL coaches picked as assistants for Big 33 Football Classic
January 12, 2022
WPIAL football coaches Matt Humbert of Belle Vernon and T.J. Plack of Peters Township will serve as Team Pennsylvania assistants for the Big 33 Football Classic in May.
Daemar Kelly helps Penn Hills ‘learn how to win’ in section victory over Gateway
January 11, 2022
As the final seconds ticked away, coach Chris Giles and the players on the Penn Hills bench all were shouting the exact same words.
Mars school board set to open job of football coach Scott Heinauer
January 10, 2022
Mars appears ready to open the job of longtime football coach Scott Heinauer to applicants.
TribHSSN boys basketball rankings for Jan. 9, 2022
Class 6A
Pitt the ‘best of both worlds’ for North Allegheny’s Timmerson
Jasmine Timmerson noticed her cell phone is a little quieter nowadays without so many calls or texts from college coaches.
North Hills clamps down on defense, stops North Allegheny in clash of 6A contenders
January 7, 2022
Alex Smith knew that if North Allegheny shooter Matt McDonough didn’t cool down, he and his North Hills teammates were in trouble.
Woodland Hills football among WPIAL teams voluntarily playing in higher classification
Football coach Tim Bostard knew folks might be a little surprised to see the PIAA list Woodland Hills as a Class 3A team after years of playing two classifications higher.
Dan Bradley resigns as OLSH football coach after reaching WPIAL finals
January 6, 2022
Weeks after leading Our Lady of the Sacred Heart to the WPIAL finals, Dan Bradley resigned as Chargers football coach after six seasons.
Greg Perry resigns as Keystone Oaks football coach citing pay for assistants
January 5, 2022
Greg Perry resigned as football coach at his alma mater Keystone Oaks, citing a union contract decision that reduced money available for his assistant coaches.
PIAA realignment leaves WPIAL Class 6A football, basketball with fewer teams
January 4, 2022
The WPIAL’s largest classification officially is getting smaller next season in football and basketball.
PIAA competitive-balance rule impacts Aliquippa football unfairly, says Beaver County NAACP
The Beaver County branch of the NAACP added its voice to those opposing a PIAA rule that could force the small-school Aliquippa football team to face even larger opponents in Class 5A next season.
Central Valley’s Sean FitzSimmons named Trib HSSN Football Player of the Year
January 2, 2022
Central Valley faced a fourth-and-1 at its own 18-yard line with less than 5 minutes left in the state championship. The Warriors held a 7-0 lead, so nobody would’ve criticized coach Mark Lyons if he’d decided to punt and play defense.
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Jan. 2, 2022
January 1, 2022
Class 6A
TribHSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 2, 2022
Class 6A
2021 Trib 25 Football Team: WPIAL, state champions highlight HSSN all-stars
December 31, 2021
This was a historic football season for the WPIAL, which had four teams celebrate state titles in Hershey.
Mt. Lebanon tops Class 6A all-state football team as Bob Palko, Alex Tecza win individual awards
December 29, 2021
Mt. Lebanon won its first state title behind a veteran coach, a dynamic offensive trio and toughness at the line of scrimmage.
10 WPIAL players earn all-state in 5A, Penn-Trafford’s John Ruane named top coach
After winning its first WPIAL and PIAA football titles, Penn-Trafford has more reason to celebrate.
WPIAL lands 14 on 4A all-state team; Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes, Mike Warfield earn top honors
If Tiqwai Hayes’ next three seasons are anything like his first, the Aliquippa freshman has an exciting future ahead.
PIAA champion Central Valley places 7 players on Class 3A all-state team, plus coach of the year
December 28, 2021
Central Valley’s 27th straight victory was a 7-0 win over Wyomissing in the PIAA Class 3A football championship game earlier this month. The Warriors’ run of success was certainly recognized by a group of Pennsylvania sportswriters.
Serra Catholic’s Jose Regus honored as Class 2A Coach of the Year in all-state football voting
A rare neurological disorder confined Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus to a wheelchair at times this season, yet Regus remained on the sideline and led the Eagles to a WPIAL football title and a state runner-up finish.
6 WPIAL players recognized on Class A all-state football team
Six WPIAL Class A football players earned all-state honors Tuesday, including Bishop Canevin wide receiver Lesae Lacks, whose team-high 50 catches helped the Crusaders win the district title.
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 26, 2021
December 25, 2021
Class 6A
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 26, 2021
Class 6A
Steve Campos resigns after 1 season as Pine-Richland football coach
December 22, 2021
The Pine-Richland football coaching job is open for the second time in six months.
WPIAL Class 6A football to shrink again as Baldwin, Hempfield, Norwin drop
December 21, 2021
The WPIAL’s largest football classification just keeps getting smaller.
Sewickley Academy draws WPIAL discipline for promotional video highlighting athletics
December 20, 2021
In an attempt to boost middle-school enrollment, Sewickley Academy inadvertently ran afoul of PIAA recruiting rules with a multi-part video highlighting the school’s academics, arts and athletics.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 19, 2021
December 18, 2021
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 19, 2021
Class 6A
Girls wrestling moving closer and closer to PIAA-sanctioned status
When coach Dan Heckert started a girls wrestling program a year ago at North Allegheny, he hoped someday the sport might become sanctioned by the PIAA and have teams at schools across the WPIAL.
Matt McDonough plays superhero on clutch 3-pointer as North Allegheny tops Pine-Richland in OT
Matt McDonough had a ticket to see the new Spider-Man movie, but his own heroics almost made him late.
Early signing day: Notre Dame, Pitt, Kentucky among Power 5 schools to land WPIAL, City League recruits
December 15, 2021
The excitement of signing day used to be limited to February, but that changed five years ago when the NCAA added an early signing period for Division I football.
Big Seven: Cornell, Rochester lead all-conference team, share top player awards
December 14, 2021
The Big Seven was competitive this fall, with every team winning at least two conference games.
Eastern: Leechburg, Clairton earn top individual awards on all-conference team
Leechburg quarterback Thomas Burke finished fifth among all WPIAL passers this season, earning the senior Offensive Player of the Year honors in the Eastern Conference.
Tri-County South: Top rushers Landan Stevenson, Colin Brady lead all-conference selections
Mapletown’s Landan Stevenson and West Greene’s Colin Brady play for small schools but they put up big numbers.
Allegheny: Steel Valley’s Nijhay Burt leads all-conference team as 2-way standout
Steel Valley’s Nijhay Burt rushed for more than 2,000 yards and scored 35 touchdowns, but Allegheny Conference coaches recognized the senior wasn’t only an offensive star.
LaRoi Johnson resigns as Sto-Rox football coach, athletic director
December 13, 2021
Football coach LaRoi Johnson, who led Sto-Rox to the WPIAL finals twice in his four seasons, said he resigned Monday as coach and athletic director.
Aliquippa has ‘no legitimate complaint’ about competitive-balance rule, says PIAA executive director
December 12, 2021
HERSHEY — The state’s competitive-balance rule is working as originally intended, despite Aliquippa football’s strong objections to playing bigger schools, says the PIAA’s top administrator.
Mt. Lebanon dethrones St. Joseph’s Prep to win 1st state championship
December 11, 2021
HERSHEY – There’s a new champion in PIAA Class 6A football, which surely surprises much of the state.
PIAA Class 6A football championship breakdown: Mt. Lebanon vs. St. Joseph’s Prep
PIAA Class 6A football championship
PIAA Class 3A football championship breakdown: Central Valley vs. Wyomissing
PIAA Class 3A football championship
Mt. Lebanon facing daunting challenge in state’s premier big-school program St. Joseph’s Prep
December 10, 2021
Nobody was too surprised to see St. Joseph’s Prep in Hershey. Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko certainly wasn’t.
Southern Columbia routs Serra Catholic, rolls to 5th consecutive PIAA title
HERSHEY — Serra Catholic punched and pulled at the football all afternoon, but the Eagles couldn’t wrestle the state championship from Southern Columbia’s steely grip.
Aliquippa beats odds, wins PIAA Class 4A championship
December 9, 2021
HERSHEY — Aliquippa has a Class A enrollment, yet the small-school Quips were crowned Thursday night as the best 4A football team in the state.
PIAA Class 2A football championship breakdown: Serra Catholic vs. Southern Columbia
PIAA Class 2A football championship
PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Penn-Trafford vs. Imhotep Charter
PIAA Class 5A football championship
PIAA Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Bishop McDevitt
PIAA Class 4A championship
Aliquippa’s slimmed-down 300-pounders face heavy workload in state finals
December 8, 2021
At 6-foot-4 and 345 pounds, Aliquippa’s Naquan Crowder fits in nicely on one of the heaviest offensive lines in the state, but a commitment made by the team’s linemen to improve their fitness has him feeling lighter on his feet.
PIAA delays release of updated enrollment numbers to fix vo-tech issue
The PIAA delayed the release of its updated enrollment numbers for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 sports seasons until January after discovering some school districts used inconsistent methods for counting their vo-tech students.
WPIAL schedules hearing to address racial allegations against South Side football team
The WPIAL has scheduled a hearing Dec. 21 to address racial allegations stemming from a football playoff game last month between South Side and Steel Valley.
Midwestern: Laurel’s Luke McCoy, Beaver Falls’ Mekhi Clark top all-conference team
December 6, 2021
Laurel running back Luke McCoy, who ranked among the WPIAL rushing leaders this season, was honored three times by Midwestern coaches in all-conference voting.
Century: 9 Washington players named all-conference, Davoun Fuse voted MVP
Washington’s Davoun Fuse proved himself to be a dual-threat quarterback by passing for 11 touchdowns and running for 14 more, results that earned the junior MVP honors in the Class 2A Century Conference.
Three Rivers: Sto-Rox leads conference honors with 9 players on 1st team
Sto-Rox outscored Three Rivers opponents 201-12 this season, a dominance that saw quarterback Josh Jenkins and running back Jaymar Pearson named Offensive co-MVPs in the Class 2A conference.
Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko returns to PIAA football finals with heavy heart
December 5, 2021
The mood at Mansion Park Stadium was jubilant as Mt. Lebanon’s football team won a state semifinal for the first time in school history, yet amid the celebration coach Bob Palko held back tears.
North Allegheny takes on new look with DeGregorio back at the helm
Blue tape forms Xs, boxes and lines on North Allegheny’s basketball court, visual guides put down by boys coach Dave DeGregorio to teach a new offense.
Mt. Lebanon trounces State College, earns 1st trip to Hershey for state football finals
December 4, 2021
ALTOONA — Mt. Lebanon already proved itself as the best team in the WPIAL. Last week they added the title of best team in all of Western Pennsylvania.
Aliquippa scores 27 consecutive points in PIAA semifinal victory over Jersey Shore
December 3, 2021
EBENSBURG — Six minutes saved Aliquippa’s state title hopes.
5 things to watch: How many WPIAL teams will reach PIAA football finals?
Could the WPIAL send five or six teams to Hershey?
Only 14, freshman Tiqwai Hayes shoulders leading role in Aliquippa’s playoff run
When he’s avoiding tacklers and scoring touchdowns at a place like Heinz Field, it’s easy to forget Tiqwai Hayes is only 14 years old.
Central Catholic’s Donovan Hinish stays committed to Notre Dame as coach Brian Kelly exits
December 2, 2021
Central Catholic senior Donovan Hinish had just eaten dinner with a Notre Dame assistant shortly before he heard Fighting Irish coach Brian Kelly was leaving for LSU.
Northwestern Six: Central Valley tops all-conference picks with 13 spots on 1st team
Central Valley earned 13 first-team spots on the Northwestern Six all-conference team with Sean FitzSimmons, Jack Bible and Jayvin Thompson honored on both sides of the football.
Allegheny Seven: North Catholic wins 4 individual awards in all-conference voting
North Catholic’s Kyle Tipinski, Tyler Primrose and Andrew Stephens, who led the Trojans to the WPIAL finals, all earned individual player awards in all-conference voting for the Allegheny Seven.
Interstate: Elizabeth Forward’s Brownfield, Southmoreland’s Govern top all-conference team
December 1, 2021
Elizabeth Forward’s defense allowed only 28 points combined in six conference games, a dominance that led Interstate coaches to name senior DaVontay Brownfield as the conference’s top defensive player.
Big Eight: Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock, McKeesport’s Bobbie Boyd lead all-conference team
Thomas Jefferson was dethroned from its familiar spot atop the Big Eight this season, and two of the players most responsible received individual honors in all-conference voting.
Greater Allegheny: Hampton rewarded for conference title with 9 spots on 1st team
Hampton celebrated its first conference title since 2014, an achievement recognized in all-conference voting.
Parkway: Aliquippa leads all-conference voting with 14 players on 1st team
November 30, 2021
Aliquippa outscored Parkway opponents 237-40 this fall, a regular-season dominance that was reflected in voting for the all-conference team.
Big East: Penn-Trafford lands 12 players, coach on all-conference football team
A dozen Penn-Trafford football players earned first-team all-conference honors from a Warriors team that went unbeaten in the Big East and won a WPIAL title Saturday.
Northeast: Dugger brothers among 7 Penn Hills players named all-conference
Penn Hills brothers Julian and Jaden Dugger, a dynamic quarterback-receiver combination for the Indians, each earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 5A Northeast.
Allegheny Six: Moon’s senior class well represented on all-conference team
Moon’s deep and talented senior class, which led the Tigers to the WPIAL finals for the first time since 1998, was well represented on the Allegheny 6 all-conference team.
Class 6A: Mt. Lebanon leads WPIAL all-conference honors with 9 players, coach
Mt. Lebanon won its first WPIAL title in 21 years, and the undefeated Blue Devils were recognized for their season-long success with nine first-team spots on the all-conference team for Class 6A.
Aliquippa celebrates ‘incredible, shameful’ victory over Belle Vernon in WPIAL Class 4A final
November 27, 2021
Small-school Aliquippa might be short on students, but nobody has more WPIAL football titles than the Quips.
Central Valley seeks 3rd straight WPIAL title, unbeaten North Catholic could spoil plans
When Central Valley takes the field Saturday, this will be the third WPIAL championship appearance in a row for some of the team’s starters.
Serra Catholic forces 9 turnovers, wins for coach in WPIAL Class 2A finals
November 26, 2021
Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus wore a hat at Heinz Field that said “battle,” a brand name of sportswear, but also one word that captures both his determination to coach and his defense’s relentlessness to win.
WPIAL Class 3A football championship breakdown: Central Valley vs. North Catholic
WPIAL Class 3A football championship
Mt. Lebanon’s latest title gives youngest Harvey brother equal bragging rights at Thanksgiving dinner
November 23, 2021
Thanksgiving means family, food and football in the Harvey household, and as the youngest of eight kids, William Harvey grew up hearing stories from the time his oldest brother won a WPIAL title.
PIAA releases sites, times for state football quarterfinal round
November 22, 2021
PIAA football playoffs
5 things we learned: Some WPIAL finalists wait decades for championship chance
Welcome to Heinz Field.
If forced to Class 5A, Aliquippa might consider leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
November 21, 2021
Forcing the Aliquippa football team to play schools two, three or four times its size isn’t safe or fair, regardless of whether the Quips are winning those games, says the school district’s top administrator.
Alex Tecza’s 4 TDs help lift Mt. Lebanon to 1st WPIAL football title in 21 years
November 20, 2021
Central Catholic had about six weeks to devise a new strategy for stopping Alex Tecza, Eli Heidenreich and Joey Daniels, yet the three seniors and their Mt. Lebanon teammates proved undeniable.
WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: Mt. Lebanon vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
North Allegheny’s Mlecko steps into PIAA cross country history books as 4-time team champion
There was a time when Maura Mlecko was the freshman on North Allegheny’s cross country team, running at the state championship meet in Hershey for the first time. But like runners on that course, four years can go by fast.
Mt. Lebanon seeks 1st WPIAL title in decades vs. Central Catholic team familiar with finals
On one sideline will be Mt. Lebanon, the undefeated No. 1 seed in the WPIAL playoffs that is making its first championship appearance since 2000.
Moon headed to 1st WPIAL final since 1998 after topping Penn Hills in semis
November 19, 2021
Heinz Field hadn’t been built the last time Moon made the WPIAL football finals, but the Tigers are headed there now.
Seeking 1st WPIAL finals trip since 1998, No. 1 Moon faces Penn Hills in semifinals
A sign hanging inside Moon’s football stadium chronicles the milestone years in team history. One look at that board reminds the current Tigers that their team hasn’t reached the WPIAL finals in more than two decades.
North Allegheny swimming brings back retired coach to replace Patrick Wenzel
November 18, 2021
Citing personal reasons, title-winning North Allegheny swimming coach Patrick Wenzel resigned this fall after leading the WPIAL’s top program for eight years.
WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit to be live streamed Wednesday on TribLive HSSN
November 17, 2021
Athletes from dozens of Western Pennsylvania high schools will gather Wednesday morning at the Heinz History Center for the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit, which will be streamed live on TribLive HSSN.
North Allegheny tops Shaler, earns 5th consecutive trip to state volleyball finals
North Allegheny will try for No. 5.
Hampton girls volleyball rallies past Freeport, reaches PIAA Class 3A final for 1st time
November 16, 2021
Two sets away from a trip to the state volleyball finals, perhaps the Freeport girls showed their age for the first time all season.
WPIAL investigates allegations of ‘racial bigotry, unsportsmanlike play’ by South Side football team
November 15, 2021
The WPIAL is investigating accusations of “racial bigotry and unsportsmanlike play” levied against the South Side football team.
Fox Chapel to host semifinal doubleheader in PIAA girls volleyball tournament
November 14, 2021
Fox Chapel will host a semifinal doubleheader Tuesday night in the girls volleyball state tournament.
PIAA announces sites, times for state soccer semifinals
The WPIAL will have at least seven soccer teams in the state finals, and the league could have a finalist in all eight championship games. The PIAA on Sunday announced sites and times for the state semifinals with seven all-WPIAL matchups among them.
5 things we learned: Big Seven keeps WPIAL Class A unpredictable
The WPIAL’s smallest classification was also its most unpredictable this fall, but Our Lady of the Sacred Heart coach Dan Bradley says he isn’t surprised by who is still standing.
Kiski Area lineman Brandon Lawhorn Moore commits to Miami (Ohio)
November 13, 2021
Kiski Area’s Brandon Lawhorn Moore, one of the WPIAL’s top offensive line recruits, committed Saturday to Miami (Ohio).
WPIAL announces sites for football semifinals
The WPIAL on Saturday revealed host sites for next weekend’s 10 football semifinals.
Thomas Jefferson returns to WPIAL semifinals with dominant win over Hampton
November 12, 2021
Hampton’s offense had posted extraordinary rushing numbers all season, but Thomas Jefferson knows a little about running the football, too.
5 things to watch: Class 6A football teams 1 win away from WPIAL finals
No player on Mt. Lebanon’s football roster was yet born the last time the Blue Devils reached the WPIAL finals.
Hampton hopes to make noise vs. defending WPIAL champ Thomas Jefferson
November 11, 2021
The sound of a train horn punctuates Hampton home games, thanks to an ardent Talbots fan at a nearby home.
Coaches announce 2021 WPIAL field hockey all-stars
November 10, 2021
Days after winning WPIAL titles, the Pine-Richland, Penn-Trafford and Shady Side Academy field hockey teams had another reason to celebrate Wednesday. Combined, the three WPIAL champions had 15 players honored as WPIAL all-stars.
3 WPIAL field hockey champions to host PIAA openers Tuesday
November 7, 2021
No Western Pennsylvania field hockey team has reached the PIAA finals in the sport’s 47-year history, but three WPIAL squads will try as they start their state tournament quest Tuesday.
Sites, times announced for PIAA girls volleyball tournament
The North Allegheny girls volleyball team will begin its quest for a fifth consecutive state title at home Tuesday.
PIAA announces sites, times for state soccer playoff openers
The PIAA revealed sites and times for first-round matchups in the state soccer playoffs and all eight WPIAL champions have home games.
5 things we learned: Home-field advantage didn’t guarantee wins in WPIAL 1st round
November 6, 2021
There are high school football stadiums in Western Pennsylvania where visiting teams rarely win. New Brighton walked into one of those daunting places Friday night and confidently won.
Freshmen runners help North Allegheny boys, girls again sweep WPIAL titles
The starting line at a cross country championship can be a stressful scene for first-timers, yet North Allegheny’s freshmen clearly weren’t fazed.
Long passes let No. 11 Peters Township upset North Hills in WPIAL playoffs
In many ways, Peters Township quarterback Sam Miller epitomizes his football team.
5 things to watch: First-round byes create new twist for WPIAL football playoffs
November 5, 2021
Byes, byes, byes.
North Hills, Peters Township hope to out-perform their seeds in ‘wide open’ 5A
November 4, 2021
The No. 11 is listed next to Peters Township’s name on the WPIAL football brackets, but the Indians sure don’t feel like a double-digit seed.
WPIAL football likely down to 7 teams in 6A as PIAA releases 2022-23 parameters
November 2, 2021
The WPIAL’s largest football classification — 6A — is likely getting smaller again.
WPIAL reveals football playoff brackets, surprises with No. 1 seed in 2A
In the span of a year, Steel Valley went from a one-win season to the No. 1 seed in the WPIAL football playoffs.
Unsung line coach has helped North Allegheny win battles in trenches for 3 decades
Who decided that the running backs and wide receivers are called skill-position players? North Allegheny line coach Mike Buchert strongly disagrees.
2021 WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan predict football playoffs
For the second year in a row, football coaches won’t crowd into a Green Tree ballroom to see the WPIAL playoff brackets announced. Instead, the brackets will be revealed in a video livestream at 6 p.m. Saturday on TribLive HSSN.
Nijhay Burt carries No. 5 Steel Valley past Serra Catholic to clinch Allegheny Conference title
October 29, 2021
WPIAL rushing leader Nijhay Burt was averaging 2 yards a carry on his first 10 tries Friday night, yet nobody this season has frustrated the Steel Valley star for an entire game.
5 things to watch in Week 9: Winner-takes-all matchups in 2 WPIAL conferences
Serra Catholic hasn’t celebrated a conference title since 2007, and the 14 seasons since included some lean years for the Eagles. The team went winless in 2012 and endured one-win seasons in 2013 and ’14.
5 things we learned in Week 8: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher delivers again in must-win game
October 24, 2021
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher has delivered many times before in must-win situations, but those often had him holding a basketball in his hands.
Brownsville leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
Leaving WPIAL football was an idea Brownsville athletic director Scott Roebuck once was adamantly against, but now he agrees that drastic move is the best chance to save the program.
Rare defeat helped North Allegheny girls volleyball players refocus
The winning streak had stood at 57 section victories when the North Allegheny girls volleyball team saw its unbeaten run stunningly end this season.
No. 1 Moon shuts out Bethel Park, clinches Allegheny Six title
October 22, 2021
Moon has a fondness for physical football, clock-consuming drives and 225-pound running backs.
5 things to watch in Week 8: Home field at stake for WPIAL 1st round and quarterfinals
There’s no place like home, especially in the playoffs.
Winless a year ago, Bethel Park challenges Moon for conference title in Allegheny Six
A year after going winless, the Bethel Park football players have a chance this week to call themselves champions of the Allegheny Six.
Allderdice wins rematch with Brashear, returns to City League championship
October 21, 2021
Using Jaerone Parker as a wildcat quarterback was a new wrinkle Allderdice added to its game plan this week while preparing to face Brashear for the second time in eight days.
4 WPIAL coaches earn statewide honor from PIAA
October 20, 2021
Four WPIAL coaches earned state coach of the year honors from the PIAA for the 2020-21 school year.
WPIAL says Plum football used ineligible player, must forfeit game
October 18, 2021
The Plum football team used an ineligible player in some games this season, the WPIAL decided Monday, meaning the Mustangs must forfeit those contests.
Gateway hopes for strong finish after season full of growing pains
October 17, 2021
Gateway football players receive a video scouting report every Sunday from coach Don Holl that starts with an update on the state of the season.
Five things we learned in Week 7: City League star, state’s top junior sidelined for season
October 16, 2021
One of Pennsylvania’s top football players may miss the rest of his junior season with a knee injury.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 16, 2021
Class 6A
Dylan Sleva drives dominant 4th quarter as No. 1 Moon outlasts Upper St. Clair
October 15, 2021
There wasn’t much surprise whenever Dylan Sleva got the football in the fourth quarter, yet Moon kept feeding their 225-pound battering ram.
5 things to watch in Week 7: North Catholic leads WPIAL defenses chasing zeroes
Zero has become North Catholic’s favorite number.
Upper St. Clair revamps offense mid-season, readies ‘wildcat’ for No. 1 Moon
October 14, 2021
An old football adage says if you’re playing two quarterbacks, you actually have none.
PIAA eases preseason practice requirements for most sports, not football
October 13, 2021
The PIAA says it’s OK to skip practice.
Kentucky coach John Calipari visits Imani Christian to see 6-10 freshman phenom
October 12, 2021
Imani Christian is a small school in East Hills, yet Saints basketball coach Khayree Wilson welcomed one of college basketball’s biggest names Tuesday.
WPIAL launches league-wide food drive with competitive twist
October 11, 2021
The WPIAL launched a league-wide food drive Monday that runs until Oct. 23 and since sports teams are involved, it comes with a competitive twist. Participating schools will compete against one another to donate the most meals.
5 things we learned in Week 6 of H.S. football: ‘You can’t control the weather’
October 10, 2021
After rushing for 167 yards and two touchdowns on Friday, Mt. Lebanon running back Alex Tecza didn’t sleep well that night.
Mt. Lebanon shows ‘toughness’ in lightning-delayed win over No. 1 Central Catholic
Mt. Lebanon quarterback Joey Daniels dislocated a finger on his left hand Friday night while catching a trick-play touchdown, but he was back behind center Saturday morning to finish the lightning-delayed game.
Defending PIHL champion North Allegheny plans to enjoy the ride
The lake wasn’t frozen, so the North Allegheny hockey team traded its sticks for oars and competed in the Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival at North Park.
Lightning postpones Central Catholic vs. Mt. Lebanon football game to Saturday
October 8, 2021
When Central Catholic visited Mt. Lebanon on Friday night, the game was supposed to be electric, not the weather.
WPIAL recognizes 5 schools with Sportsmanship Award
Six-time winner Hampton was among five schools named Friday as recipients of the WPIAL Sportsmanship Award, joining Derry, Laurel, Moon and Upper St. Clair.
North Hills’ Robert Dickerson commits to Bucknell for both football, baseball
College football coaches want Robert Dickerson as a slot receiver, but the North Hills senior knew he didn’t want to put away his baseball glove and bat for good.
5 things to watch in Week 6: De facto conference champions to be crowned?
October 7, 2021
No, it’s not over ‘til it’s over.
Central Catholic, Mt. Lebanon battle for 1st place in WPIAL Class 6A
Unlike last week, there won’t be any motivational banner hanging over Mt. Lebanon’s locker room entrance.
5 things we learned in Week 5 of H.S. football: Clairton’s 66-game streak is safe
October 2, 2021
The Wyomissing football team might have a thank you gift headed its way with a Clairton postmark on the package. Suddenly, the Bears are huge fans of the high school near Reading.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 3, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny girls soccer gets defensive in WPIAL title defense
As two-time reigning WPIAL champions, the girls on North Allegheny’s soccer team are trying to defend their title again this fall, with an added emphasis on the word “defend.”
Devin Whitlock shines but sophomore shares spotlight as Belle Vernon tops Laurel Highlands
October 1, 2021
If this matchup was meant to decide the most-dangerous playmaker in the Big Eight, Devin Whitlock certainly made his case.
5 things to watch in high school football’s Week 5
September 30, 2021
Greensburg Salem, Laurel Highlands and Steel Valley lead a collection of WPIAL football teams enjoying a revival this fall.
WPIAL director joins Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank coalition
September 27, 2021
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman, who is leading a league-wide food drive this fall, was named Monday to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank’s Sports and Media Coalition.
5 things we learned in Week 4 of H.S. football: 16 teams remain unbeaten at midway point
September 26, 2021
Laurel football coach Brian Cooper has the Spartans off to a 5-0 start, likely for the first time since 1977, but the Spartans aren’t slowing down to celebrate.
North Allegheny girls golfers chasing individual, team success
Many of the golfers on North Allegheny’s girls team already have their own swing instructors, so first-year coach Sarah Morrison tries not to tinker much with their mechanics.
Central Catholic tops North Allegheny in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship
September 24, 2021
Central Catholic has a new-look offense with ties to an NFL coach, but the Vikings haven’t abandoned what made them two-time defending WPIAL champions.
Central Catholic, North Allegheny meet in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship
North Allegheny maybe isn’t the trendy pick in WPIAL championship talk, but the next few weeks could change that discussion.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 4: Covid cancellations not always ‘no-contest’
September 23, 2021
The WPIAL’s message is clear: Not every covid-related cancellation will be excused as no-contest.
Carlynton football cancellation leads to Serra Catholic vs. Freeport matchup Friday
September 22, 2021
Carlynton canceled its nonconference football game scheduled for Friday against Serra Catholic because of covid-19 cases, but Serra needed little time to find new opponent.
After near-death experience, Bishop Canevin senior writing comeback story on football field
In a helmet and shoulder pads, Eli Wilson looks just like thousands of other high school football players across Western Pennsylvania. But the Bishop Canevin senior has a remarkable life story that started tragically before turning triumphant.
WPIAL sets covid-19 cancellation policy, won’t require vaccinations for officials
September 20, 2021
A regular-season contest canceled because of covid-19 can be declared a “no-contest” rather than a forfeit, but first the WPIAL intends to make sure teams aren’t bending the rules to avoid an opponent.
No longer Penn State-bound, Perry’s Tyreese Fearbry chooses Kentucky
September 19, 2021
Six weeks after decommiting from Penn State, Perry senior Tyreese Fearbry has a new plan for college.
Chartiers Valley cornerback Lamont Payne commits to Penn State
Chartiers Valley junior defensive back Lamont Payne committed to Penn State on Saturday while on campus to watch the Nittany Lions’ win over Auburn.
5 things we learned in Week 3 of H.S. football: Bishop Canevin joins Class A conversation
September 18, 2021
Rebuilding a football program traditionally takes playbooks and practice, but Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson added tree pruners and paint brushes to his list.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 19, 2021
Class 6A
Strong freshman class adds to lineup for defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams
When your boys and girls teams are both defending WPIAL and PIAA cross country champions, what do you do this fall for an encore?
Sto-Rox’s big-play defense steals momentum, finds end zone in win over Avonworth
Jaymar Pearson had already shed his Sto-Rox jersey in the minutes after Friday night’s win, but Avonworth’s coach recognized him even without a No. 7 on his back.
After 11 shutout quarters, Sto-Rox defense draws big test from Avonworth
September 17, 2021
The point totals on Sto-Rox’s side of the scoreboard are often eye-catching, but the numbers next to their opponent have been noteworthy as well this fall.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 3: Coaches like nonconference tune-ups
September 16, 2021
The sprint to the WPIAL playoffs starts now.
PIAA worried teams using covid-19 issues to avoid unfavorable opponents
September 15, 2021
The PIAA is worried teams may be using covid-19 issues as a way to avoid an unfavorable opponent, so the board on Wednesday debated at length a policy that would’ve made regular season cancellations forfeits.
PIAA board approves vaccine mandate for officials, doesn’t foresee shortage
The PIAA does not expect its covid-19 vaccination mandate to cause a shortage of game officials since the new policy applies only to inter-district state tournament games.
PIAA requires covid-19 vaccination for all officials working state playoffs
September 14, 2021
The PIAA will require its game officials in all sports to be fully vaccinated against covid-19 to work any state postseason contests this fall.
Nearly forced to move with NFL free agent father, Tyree Alualu excelling as North Allegheny linebacker
September 12, 2021
North Allegheny linebacker Tyree Alualu is already making an impact as a first-year starter in the middle of the Tigers defense, but the sophomore standout nearly spent this fall playing football for another high school, likely in Florida.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of H.S. football
September 11, 2021
Time inevitably erases memories from blowout games with lopsided scores, regardless of whether you’re on the winning or losing side.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 12, 2021
Class 6A
Central Valley’s Landon Alexander gets birthday wish, defeats rival Aliquippa
Landon Alexander wished for a win on his 18th birthday.
Aliquippa, Central Valley anticipate electric atmosphere as rivalry renews
September 10, 2021
The cement stands may be weathered, the grass field might be bumpy and the vintage light towers have rust, but few WPIAL football venues can match the atmosphere of a big crowd at historic Aschman Stadium in Aliquippa.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 2: Handmade schedule a hit
September 9, 2021
Man or machine?
Basketball standout Debaba Tshiebwe eligible after transfer to Central Catholic, WPIAL decides
September 8, 2021
Central Catholic transfer Debaba Tshiebwe, a basketball standout who arrived this summer from a private school in Ohio, is fully eligible for the regular season and playoffs this winter.
Ellwood City, OLSH cancel Week 2 football games
September 7, 2021
Ellwood City and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart each canceled their scheduled football games this week because of covid-related issues.
What we learned in Week 1 of H.S. football
More than two dozen WPIAL football teams are off to 2-0 starts, but the most exciting could belong to Shaler Area.
Underclassmen to play key roles for North Allegheny boys soccer
With few returning starters and a roster heavy in sophomores, North Allegheny coach Bobby Vosmaer told his boys soccer team to be ready.
Senior quarterback steps up, leads Thomas Jefferson past Gateway in battle of top-ranked teams
September 3, 2021
Quarterback was considered a big question mark for Thomas Jefferson, so coach Bill Cherpak intended to give a couple of players snaps there.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 1: Teams roll with covid cancellations
September 2, 2021
If high school football teams were hoping covid shutdowns were left behind in 2020, this week shows they’re not gone yet.
Westinghouse football game canceled because of covid case
Friday’s scheduled football game between Westinghouse and Kirtland (Ohio) will not be played because of a covid case within the City League school’s program.
Central Valley, Blackhawk left without Week 1 games after opponents cancel
September 1, 2021
In a dilemma reminiscent of last fall, Central Valley has started searching for a new opponent for Friday night’s football game.
Bishop Sycamore under scrutiny after facing Sto-Rox, IMG Academy on same weekend
August 30, 2021
Sto-Rox and Bishop Sycamore both wore black uniforms for their football game Friday at the Wolvarena, but the matching outfits weren’t the most unusual part of the weekend for the online school from Columbus, Ohio.
5 things we learned in Week Zero of H.S. football
Rather than a double-double, two-sport star Rodney Gallagher recorded a double-triple.
Big-play defense leads Sto-Rox past Bishop Sycamore at Wolvarena
Sto-Rox’s high-scoring offense will have big nights this season, there’s little doubt about that.
Philly power Imhotep Charter wears down Central Catholic with oversized offensive line
Two tight ends, a huge offensive line and a gritty running back gaining chucks of yardage at a time. This certainly was the style of offense Central Catholic usually would relish.
Central Catholic draws Philadelphia power Imhotep Charter in cross-state Week Zero clash
August 27, 2021
Finding a willing Week Zero opponent nearby isn’t always easy for Central Catholic, the two-time defending WPIAL Class 6A champion.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the biggest coaching moves for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top kickers and punters for the 2021 season.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week Zero: On opening night, teams have options
August 26, 2021
“Week Zero” is back.
WPIAL football teams welcome return to traditional ‘Friday night lights’ atmosphere
In any other year, there might have been huge crowds at Sarge Alberts Stadium to witness one of the most dominant seasons in WPIAL football history.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 25, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top safeties for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
August 24, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top linebackers for the 2021 season.
2021 WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Pine-Richland saga headlines offseason of change
The defending champion has a new coach. The preseason favorite has a new quarterback. The runner-up from last season has a whole lot of new faces.
WPIAL football finals to be played over 2 days at Heinz Field
August 23, 2021
For the first time, the WPIAL football championships will be a two-day event at Heinz Field this fall.
Aliquippa keeps punching above its weight … and winning
Because Aliquippa reached the WPIAL Class 4A finals last fall, coach Mike Warfield worries that achievement will overshadow one harsh reality.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 22, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 21, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 20, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top tight ends for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 19, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top wide receivers for the 2021 season.
After offseason upheaval, Pine-Richland has something to prove
Pine-Richland is a defending WPIAL and PIAA champion, but the Rams aren’t focused on last year. At this point, that undefeated season seems long ago.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 18, 2021
Starting this week, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2021 season.
Gateway gladly wears bull’s-eye in WPIAL Class 5A
On paper, Gateway certainly has the look of a WPIAL contender.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 17, 2021
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2021 season.
Like rivals, Upper St. Clair turns to new nucleus
Upper St. Clair’s conference was among the WPIAL’s deepest in recent years with senior-heavy rosters full of experience becoming the norm in the South Hills.
Peters Township seniors hungry for bigger roles
When Peters Township snaps the football on opening night, returning center Anthony Brunette will be the lineman over the ball.
After state championship blockbuster, Central Valley working on encore
August 14, 2021
The big question facing Central Valley this fall is: How do you top last season?
U.S.-Canada border policy impacts Week Zero schedule for Upper St. Clair, Greensburg Central Catholic
August 13, 2021
In any other year, facing an international opponent would bring some excitement to Week Zero of football season.
Culture change takes root under Bob Palko at Mt. Lebanon
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
North Allegheny flying under Class 6A radar
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
Chartiers Valley’s Marian Turnbull commits to Northeastern
August 10, 2021
The record-setting Chartiers Valley girls team now has five rising seniors all committed to play basketball in college with three headed to Division I schools.
Mike Tomlin refutes report saying Steelers receiver James Washington wants traded
August 7, 2021
Despite a report saying James Washington was unhappy with his role and wanted to be traded, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he hasn’t heard those words from the fourth-year receiver.
North Allegheny AD Bozzuto pitches regular season baseball tournaments in PIAA board debut
High school baseball players can play dozens and dozens of AAU games each summer, at times more than one per day and often multiple days in a row.
Rick Meister, championship-winning softball coach at North Allegheny, dies
Former North Allegheny softball coach Rick Meister, who led the Tigers to both WPIAL and PIAA gold, has died. He was 73.
Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich follows family tradition, commits to Navy
August 6, 2021
Eli Heidenreich’s college choice involved more than deciding where he’d spend the next four or five years of his life. The Mt. Lebanon senior, whose grandfather and uncle both served in the Navy, followed a similar path and committed this week to play football for the Naval Academy.
WPIAL requests eligibility hearings for New Castle, Bishop Canevin transfers
August 4, 2021
The WPIAL will schedule an eligibility hearing for New Castle transfer DaJaun Young, a double-digit scorer for Kennedy Catholic’s boys basketball team last winter.
North Allegheny catcher Aaron Posey commits to Division I Kennesaw State
July 31, 2021
As a catcher named Posey who wears No. 28, North Allegheny’s Aaron Posey sometimes jokes that he’s related to a National League MVP.
With camps, college visits back, TribLive HSSN Preseason All-Stars are busy this summer
July 22, 2021
As Josh Jenkins walked into Kennywood Park, passing the merry-go-round and the Sky Rocket, the Sto-Rox quarterback marveled at just how much life has improved in a year.
WPIAL adds board of directors seat exclusively for private schools
July 19, 2021
Private schools in the WPIAL soon will have their own seat on the board.
WPIAL football championships will return to Heinz Field this fall — maybe over 2 days
The WPIAL football championships are returning to Heinz Field this fall, maybe for a two-day affair Thanksgiving weekend at the North Shore stadium.
State champion wrestler, City League great Godwin Nyama Cutler dies at 27
July 18, 2021
Former state wrestling champion Godwin Nyama Cutler, an all-time City League great who won the league its first PIAA title less than a decade ago, has died. He was 27.
Miller, Meister headline North Allegheny Hall of Fame class
July 16, 2021
Championship-winning coaches Heidi Miller and Rick Meister were among 18 inductees chosen to enter the North Allegheny Hall of Fame this year.
PIAA makes change to state basketball tournament, anticipates ‘normal’ fall
July 14, 2021
The state basketball tournament will start a little earlier this winter under a schedule change that makes cross-state travel easier for the semifinals and finals.
Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer wins titles in 2 sports
July 12, 2021
Early in the winter, Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer called his future college wrestling coach with some bad news. He’d injured his left shoulder and would eventually need surgery to repair a torn labrum.
A year like no other: The top stories of the 2020-21 school year in WPIAL sports
July 10, 2021
8.21.20
Record-setting quarterback Johnny DiNapoli leaving East Allegheny
July 9, 2021
Johnny DiNapoli, who set a WPIAL passing record two years ago, has transferred this summer from East Allegheny to Elizabeth Forward.
Seton LaSalle baseball standout, coach’s son Brett Wagner transferring to IMG Academy
July 8, 2021
Seton LaSalle baseball coach Mike Wagner is losing his favorite player to IMG Academy in Florida, but he’s 100% on board with the kid’s decision.
North Allegheny’s Cole Young picked for all-star baseball game at Coors Field
North Allegheny shortstop Cole Young, who could be a future MLB Draft pick, is headed to the site of this year’s baseball all-star game.
Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Sean FitzSimmons
July 4, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Trib HSSN Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification
July 3, 2021
Whether their school had students in the classroom or virtually this spring, there is a special seat up front reserved for these standout performers and coaches in the return to the baseball field.
Kathy McConnell-Miller leaves Trinity bench for college basketball job
July 2, 2021
Kathy McConnell-Miller is returning to the college coaching ranks after two seasons with the Trinity girls basketball team.
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons nominated for NFL high school coach of the year
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons was among 32 nominees announced Thursday for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.
2021 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Eric Chalus, Bethel Park
2021 HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
Week Zero football showcase returns to Wolvarena in August
July 1, 2021
Week Zero is back on the football schedule this fall, and with it returns the Western Pa. vs. Everyone football showcase hosted by Woodland Hills.
Butler basketball’s Devin Carney commits to Elon
One of college basketball’s stingiest defenses added some scoring power Thursday when Butler’s Devin Carney committed to Elon.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Patrick Body, Gateway
June 28, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Moon lineman Trent Fraley commits to Marshall
June 27, 2021
Moon’s Trent Fraley, the son of a former NFL lineman, announced his commitment Sunday to Marshall.
WPIAL, PIAA champions among 2021 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
Among the six teams crowned WPIAL baseball champions this spring, their individual stories varied greatly.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Brad Birch, Gateway
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Landon Alexander, Central Valley
June 26, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny baseball appreciates contribution of seniors, looks to bright future
June 25, 2021
North Allegheny’s Cole Young shared hugs and handshakes with teammates near the first base dugout at Penn State’s baseball field, season-ending thank yous to the seniors whose high school careers were ending there.
La Salle College starter shuts down North Allegheny in Class 6A finals
June 18, 2021
Sometimes, it’s not a pitcher’s fastball velocity that makes him unhittable. La Salle College starter Ryan Marler proved that true Friday night.
Shenango’s rally falls 1 run short in PIAA Class 2A championship
UNIVERSITY PARK – At 67, Shenango coach Larry Kelly was four years younger than his state championship counterpart in the other dugout Friday.
Facing 1-year suspension, Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz resigns
June 17, 2021
Suspended football coach Mauro Monz, facing a one-year ban from the WPIAL over recruiting allegations, said he’s resigning at Seton LaSalle rather than continue to appeal.